Antique English Georgian Regency Flame Mahogany Davenport Writing Desk (Circa 1820)

Summary:
• Circa: 1820
• Period: George IV / Regency
• Origination: England, UK
• Item: Davenport Desk
• Wood: Flame mahogany
• Moulded gallery
• Original green insert leather
• Writing slope
• Four cedar lined working drawers to right hand side (rare)
• Two internal working drawers
• Secret locking mechanism inside writing slope
• Original working locks & keys
• Slide-out pen tray to right-hand side
• Slide-out brushing slide to left hand side
• Quality dovetailed drawer construction
• Cross banded panels
• Carved front feet
• Original brass castors
• Stunning quality
• Good original condition
• Completely original
• Free delivery to England, Wales & southern Scotland*
• Free 14 days UK returns policy

Description:
This is an example of a fabulous quality and rare antique English Georgian Regency Davenport writing desk, decorated in the finest flame mahogany veneers, circa 1820, in good original condition. The Davenport incorporates a moulded gallery above a writing slope, boasting its original green leather insert. The writing slope retains its original lock, with a working key which, when unlocked, allows the lid to be opened. Inside the writing slope is further storage room, including a set of four drawers situated at the back. The top two drawers within the writing slope are fully functional, with turned mahogany knobs. The lower two drawers are dummy drawers and feature a secret locking mechanism; the knob on the left dummy drawer can be pulled all the way out to unlock a pull-out pen tray on the right hand side (above the four external drawers). The concealed pen tray, once pulled to its furthest extent, can swing through 90° to align itself with the writing slope. Also inside the writing slope, next to the lock for the lid, is a recessed metal pin. Removal of the metal pin allows the writing slope to slide forward, enabling the user to sit with their knees underneath, thus allowing a more comfortable writing position. Below the writing slope, to the right hand side, are four hand-dovetailed, graduated cedar lined drawers. It is rare to find cedar-lined drawers; it is another example of the superb quality of this desk. Each drawer retains its original lock; a second key operates these drawers. To the left hand side of the Davenport is a bank of dummy drawers, above which is a pullout brushing slide. The front and back are decorated with fine cross banding. The Davenport rests on bracket feet with its original brass castors.

This item would look superb in a variety of rooms from the bedroom, living room or office. This item would certainly grace any home and is a great investment as it is an extremely functional item. This is a truly excellent piece with quality design and construction throughout. So don’t miss out on your chance to own a lovely piece of furniture.

History of the Davenport Desk:
This desk owes its name to a Captain Davenport who was the first to commission the design, from Gillows of Lancaster, near the end of the 18th century. In a sense, then, it could also be considered a Campaign desk, though there are no records indicating if Captain Davenport was in the British Army or the Royal Navy. The design was ingenious and practical because it consumed so little space in an officers’ cabin on a ship.

Condition Report:
The desk shows small signs of general use to the corners and leading edges, but nothing significant, considering the age of the item. While the original leather has some minor general use marks (see photo), it is free from rips and tears. It is extremely rare to see examples with their original leathers. The drawers are all smooth running and close flush to the frame. The drawers retain their original working locks and a working key. Similarly, the lock to the writing slope lid is original, fully working and with a working key. The internal locking mechanisms are also fully functional. The desk stands on its original bracket feet and original brass castors. As the desk retains its original polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination; this can only be achieved through age and the years of care and cleaning it has received. The item is solid in joint and ready to use.

Dimensions:
External height = 84.6cm or 33⅜” or 2ft 9⅜”
External width = 56.8cm or 22⅜” or 1ft 10⅜”
External depth = 56cm or 22” or 1ft 10”
Writing height (bottom of slope) = 77.8cm or 30⅝” or 2ft 6⅝”
Slide height = 65.6cm or 25⅞” or 2ft 1⅞”
Knee height = 67.9cm or 26¾” or 2ft 2¾”

Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.

Ref. Davenport 2