Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1850s.
Once opened, it's wonderful to see the original leather, which have usually been replaced, this one still in excellent shape after all those years.
There are various compartments at the top, a removable pen rest with space underneath, a sloped section for nibs, stamps and the like, a lidded compartment and two sections for inkwells (complete with one brass topped inkwell).
This box comes complete with highly sought-after secret drawers; the divider between the inkwell and the sloped compartment can be pulled to release the sprung panel to reveal the line of three drawers.
A couple of minor things to mention (insignificant but mentioned for accuracy): the drawers would each of had a tab or pull on - easy to replace if desired, one brass catch missing to open one side of the interior, and the leather would have had a tab on each side to lift the panels up, although this box came to me with a key, it doesn't seem to be working but looks aesthetically appealing in the front of the box, so I shall include. As I said, all minor things but should be mentioned.
A really splendid and showy box in superb condition having been recently french polished. Measuring 18" x 9 1/2" x 5 3/4" tall while closed, a good grand size.
Item ID: 31695
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Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1850s.
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Large Antique Rosewood Writing Slope or Box / Lapdesk - Secret Drawers