Late 19th Century English Chippendale Style Mahogany Partners Desk

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This exquisite partner's desk is a fine example of Chippendale-style furniture, characterized by its intricate and ornate design. The desk … Read more This exquisite partner's desk is a fine example of Chippendale-style furniture, characterized by its intricate and ornate design. The desk features gadroon carving along the edges, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. On both sides, the front drawers are adorned with elaborate raised moldings that create a three-dimensional effect, adding depth and texture to the drawer fronts. These moldings consist of fluted scrollwork and bellflower motifs, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

The brass pulls are bail drop handles with decorative backplates, enhancing the desk's overall visual appeal. The desk stands on sturdy bracket feet, providing stability and a classic, timeless look. The green leather top with gold tooling perfectly complements the rich mahogany wood, making this desk a standout piece of furniture, evoking both luxury and historical significance.

Additionally, the desk features double crown molding designs on the sides, adding to its ornate craftsmanship. On one side, a single long drawer sits above a centered kneehole, flanked by stacks of four drawers on each pedestal, all adorned with brass drop-pull hardware. The other side of the desk also includes a single long drawer above a centered kneehole, flanked by two drawers and door cabinets on each pedestal, as well as a center pullout drawer for paper files—making this desk ideal for couples who work from home. With ample storage space on both sides, it is highly functional.

This desk holds a unique historical note, having retained a small handwritten ink inscription stating, "This writing table was a present from Lord Milner to Geoffrey & Cecilia Dawson on their marriage on June 14, 1919." Lord Milner, Alfred Milner, 1st Viscount Milner (1854-1925), was a prominent British statesman and colonial administrator. Geoffrey Dawson, originally named George Geoffrey Robinson, was a significant figure in early 20th-century British journalism. Born in 1874, he became the editor of The Times, one of the most influential newspapers in England, serving two terms from 1912 to 1919 and from 1923 to 1941. His marriage to Cecilia Spencer-Smith on June 14, 1919, further connected him with prominent societal figures, underscoring his position within the British elite.

Such provenance adds to its historical and sentimental value, marking it as not just a functional piece, but a cherished heirloom with a storied past.

H=30 in. W=51 in. D=40 in. 250 lbs.
Kneehole: H=24 in. W=19 in. See less