Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this piece to the 1910s.
This desk boasts 27 internal drawers and 5 vertical pigeonholes 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 each side of the desk, just below 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 interior houses 27 internal drawers, 8 of which incorporate decorative brass label holders. All drawers feature turned knobs and there is also a vertical paper tidy draw. Incorporated into the bank of drawers are five vertical pigeonhole compartments, ideal for storing paperwork or letters in an upright position. The wooden dividers that separate the pigeonholes can be removed to provide larger single storage spaces if desired. A letter rack is also situated at the back of the ‘cubby hole’ to the centre of the drawers.
When the sliding tambour is pulled down and secured using the original lock and working key, the secret locking mechanism is activated to lock the pedestal. When the sliding tambour is opened again, this deactivates the locking mechanism. The original tambour lock and key are in working order.
The desk stands on two large pedestals, which incorporate a bank of graduated drawers. The bottom right drawer features a large open filing drawer. The drawers retain their original, ornately carved oak cup handles. 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 dismantles into three main sections for easy storage or transportation.
Condition Report:
The desk is in excellent original condition and is in complete working order. Nominal old use marks to the leading edges, but nothing significant considering its age. There are no ink or water stains or scratches to the main desktop. There are old use marks to the tops of the writing slide supports and insides of the drawers (e.g. old ink stains). The tambour retains its original working barrel lock, with a working key. There are no splits in the tambour. The desk incorporates an internal secret locking mechanism; when the roll-top is closed, it locks all the drawers. The desk boasts all its original internal decorative brass label holders and turned knobs. The desk has been French polished in our workshops. 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 = 126.6cm or 49?” or 4ft 1?”
External width = 128cm or 50?” or 4ft 2?”
External depth (including handles) = 81.5cm or 32” or 2ft 8”
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 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 33
Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this piece to the 1910s.
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 Edwardian 4ft 2” Oak Roll Top Pedestal Office Writing Desk (Circa 1910)
