Portable Writing Desk

Date1820-1840

MediumMahogany, mahogany veneer, brass, glass, & pewter (?)

DimensionsOH: 6"; OW: 20"; OD (closed) 10"; OD (open): 19 15/16"

Credit LineGift of the Estate of Walter Fetner

Object number2008-79

DescriptionMahogany lap desk with inlaid brass keyhole escutcheon, plaque on lid, and drawer pull; top hinges open to reveal slanted, baize covered writing surface surrounded by mahogany veneer; across top of interior are five compartments, one on each end for glass inkwell and sander flanking three lidded compartments, the center one largest, with black knobs on lids; writing surface opens to reveal compartments; drawer on proper left side locked with brass rod accessed when desk is open.Label TextLap desks were common forms during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. While this example is somewhat late, it is representative of the form that men such as Thomas Jefferson owned and used at home or on their travels.Inscription(s)"H Mort" engraved on top brass placque.
"X" in chalk on drawer bottom.
"ntr/ Jat" in ink on underside of upper writing surface.ProvenanceThis example was owned by Mary Branch Ware Fetner, late of Williamsburg. According to family recollections, Mrs. Fetner's father was involved with the Williamsburg Restoration in the early years. It is unknown whether Mrs. Fetner collected this desk or whether it descended in her family.