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VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820
VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820

VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK , c 1820

$ 902.88

Availability: 100 in stock

Description

VERY RARE ANTIQUE 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CAMPHOR WRITING DESK
Rare and good quality Chinese export camphor wood writing desk, Circa 1820.
These lap desks were traded by sea captains in the early 19th century & were used by military officers whilst on campaign. The Camphor wood gives off a very pleasent odour & has insect repelling qualities.
We challenge you to find many examples of this very interesting desk---it is VERY RARE.
By opening the draw, one activates the roll top. Once opened, the hinged writing surface flips forward allowing one to raise the rear compartment. The front of the compartment has a sliding tambour front which when opened reveals a series of compartments. On top of the compartment, there are various wood covers. The box retains its original wooden roll and when removed it exposes the release for the secret compartment which has three draws. At the bottom of each draw are Chinese characters. The desk has flip-out side brass carrying handles and the top sides and back are trimmedin brass.
CONDITION: Excellent; age related surface marks and some wear to brassware.. Green felt has been replaced
DIMENSIONS: WIDTH: 20 7/8 inches; DEPTH: 16 7/8 inches; HEIGHT 10 3/4 inches
Reference: Crossman, Carl L, "The Decorative Arts of the China Trade", p. 248 (plate 96)