An antique, circa mid 19th Century English Military Campaign traveling writing or lap desk with brass details, a fitted leather and gilt interior, two ink bottles, pen tray and compartments under the fold out writing area. The campaign desk features an ornate brass escutcheon on the top lid engraved with the date 1870 and the name R. Gerrard. The lock escutcheon on the front features a highly detailed image of a lion and a unicorn – symbols of the United Kingdom. The manufacturer’s name is also on the escutcheon, Tompson. The blue and gilt leather interior appears newer than the desk. There are two glass (possibly crystal) and brass capped bottles presumably for ink that look to be original to the desk. The recessed brass handles on either side, fit neatly into their surrounds. When closed the desk measures 20″ wide by 6.75″ high by 10.5″ deep. Some of the inlaid brass detailing has lifted slightly from one corner on the top of the box and there is also an age crack. A brief description of campaign furniture: “Any furniture specifically made to break down or fold for ease of travel can be described as campaign furniture. It was designed to be packed up and carried on the march. It has been used by traveling armies since at least the time of Julius Caesar but it is commonly associated with British Army officers, many of whom had purchased their commissions. With the rise and expansion of the British Empire in the 19th and 20th centuries the demand by the military, administrators and colonists increased. British officers of high social position in the Georgian and Victorian periods (1714–1901) often carried high-quality portable furniture.”
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Dimensions:Height: 15.5 in (39.37 cm)Width: 20 in (50.8 cm)Depth: 19.5 in (49.53 cm)
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Style:Campaign(Of the Period)
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Materials and Techniques:BrassGold LeafLeatherWood
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Place of Origin:England
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Period:Mid-19th Century
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Date of Manufacture:1850’s
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Condition:FairReplacements made: The leather interior appears replaced. Wear consistent with age and use. In fair to good antique condition with age appropriate wear. Cracks, some lifting of the brass inlay are evident.
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Seller Location:Atlanta, GA
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Reference Number:Seller: LU7240237945232
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