Antique gentleman’s travelling desk companion, presented in grained black Russian leather with gilt brass furniture, internally divided into five sections. Fitted with three draws of mahogany construction having fine tooled black leather fronts set with gilded and engraved brass handles and plates, each lined in fine claret velvet, and two fine leather bound (unused) approximately Royal 30-twomo notebooks with gilt-edged leaves, the spines marked in block “Cash – Account” and “Addresses – Memoranda.” Engraved gilt brass hinge with maker’s cartouche and “London.” The door inside with twin card pockets on moiré silk panels, loops to centre for writing instrument. Bramah lock and key.

An extremely unusual item of the very best quality, created for the gentleman traveller, the outer appearance as a safe consistent with its undoubted intended use, the velvet lined draws well-suited to the safe storage of jewellery and valuables. The Bramah lock an important expression of first quality and security.

The maker’s cartouche appears to represent “D & S,” quite possibly Drew and Sons, the preeminent maker of luxury leather luggage and other accessories in the 19th century, as well as gold and silversmiths. Drew and Sons did not register a formal maker’s mark until 1888, so this cartouche might be an earlier monogram.

NB: Please note that the pencil shown is for display purposes and does not form part of this desk companion.

Dimensions: 7″ high x 6″ wide x 4″ deep

Stock No: FN0321

Price: SOLD