Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this piece to the 1890s.
This desk boasts 33 internal drawers to the top section! Most roll tops do not have half this number of drawers.
Constructed with an “S” shaped design to the top section, the desk was designed to be freestanding in the centre of a room. There is a narrow opening within the tambour (see photos) to allow people to post letters through the slot addressed to the owner of the desk, whilst the desk was closed. The sliding tambour can be lifted up to reveal a bank of internal drawers and compartments. The pigeonhole drawer linings are constructed of rare lacewood. The interior houses 33 internal drawers; the majority of which incorporate brass label holders, with all drawers featuring oak knobs. There are also three secret cushion fronted drawers, which do not feature brass knobs (within the central section).
The desk stands on two large pedestals, which incorporate a bank of graduated drawers that are made of top quality sycamore with hand dovetail construction. Each drawer retains its original number of adjustable partition dividers. The bottom right drawer features a large open filing drawer. The drawers retain their original, ornately carved oak cup handles. The drawer fronts feature a cushion front moulding. Sitting on top of each pedestal are two large pull-out writing slides, ideal for organising additional paper work around you, whilst you work. There is a solid oak fielded panel modesty board in between the two pedestals at the back of the desk. The desk sits on its original steel castors. The desk dismantles into three main sections for easy storage or transportation.
Condition Report:
The desk is in good condition and is in complete working order. Nominal old use marks to the leading edges, notably to the exterior of the pedestals and plinths, but nothing significant considering its age. There are no ink or water stains or scratches to the main work surface area. There are old use marks to the tops of the writing slide supports and inside the drawers (old ink stains). The tambour retains its original working barrel lock and key. There are no splits in the tambour (which again, is common in these types of desks). The desk also retains its original internal secret locking mechanism; when the roll-top is closed, it locks all the drawers including the central drawer. The desk boasts all its internal brass label holders; drawer handles/knobs and sits on its original castors. Please note, the drawers were designed to have only one divider per drawer, the position of which (back to front) can be adjusted; the drawers are not missing multiple dividers. The desk retains its original polish, which is why it has a fantastic colour and patination. It is rare to see a roll top desk displaying such quality in such good condition. This item is well made, solid in joint and ready to use.
Dimensions:
External height = 138cm or 54?” or 4ft 6?”
External width = 152cm or 59?” or 4ft 11?”
External depth = 90.8cm or 35¾” or 2ft 11¾”
Free UK Delivery*:
We offer free delivery to mainland England, Wales, and Southern Scotland. *We do not offer free delivery to locations north of Stirling in Scotland, Northern Ireland, or any British Islands off the mainland. If you live in one of the areas, please contact us for a delivery quote.
Free 14 Days UK Returns & Refunds:
A free 14-day “no quibble” returns policy (from the date you receive the item) is available if you are not happy with this item. We will collect the item free of charge from you.
International Buyers:
Please contact us before purchasing the item, so that we can obtain an accurate shipping quote and delivery lead-time.
Ref. Roll top Desk 28
Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this piece to the 1890s.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Yolanda Gray Antiques Profile Page
Yolanda Gray Antiques is a registered member of LAPADA CINOA
Antique English Victorian Oak Roll Top Pedestal Office Writing Desk (Circa 1890)
