Description:

EARLY 1800S TRAVEL DESK
Fine burled walnut travel desk from the early 1800s, 20 1/2" x 11 1/2" x 8 1/8", opening to a depth of 20 1/4". The desk, with brass carrying handles, trim, and fittings, has a hinged lid which when opened reveals on the inside of the lid a compartment divided by with leather-covered leaves for the storage of documents. A brass swivel secures it to the lid. It is faced with blue velvet, as is the small writing surface beneath. A small compartment with a lid and bone handle appears at left, then a small tray for pens, followed by three well compartments for ink bottles (two present). The writing surface may in turn be flipped toward the viewer to expose an even larger, felt-covered writing surface. It has a compartment beneath secured by two latches, and there is a hidden compartment on the right side of the desk as well. There is a small chip to the wood on the right side, and the top bears a crack along the grain running the width of the desk. There is an inset where a brass nameplate may once have sat - it is now gone. Felt is worn as well. Within the desk we found several notes concerning obligations, birthdates of children, etc., all related to one Leonard Holmes of Boston, all ca. 1815-1825. Holmes may have been a seaman or ship's officer, as one book, The Pirate, (New York: Harper) 1822 is signed by him and dated July 21, 1824 and it mentions that he sailed on a packet from Liverpool to Canton with Capt. Abel Coffin, a voyage taking 119 days. Interestingly, in 1827 Coffin discovered Siamese twins Chang and Eng and brought them to America for "display".

Accepted Forms of Payment:

COD (cash on delivery), Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent USPS priority, USPS International Express (for most overseas), DHL or UPS Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items are not shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee.

September 11, 2013 11:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 22.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000