Large Victorian Mahogany Brass Bound Campaign Writing Slope With Working Key

A large Victorian mahogany writing slope dating from around 1860–1880, banded with brass in the military campaign style and retaining its original working key.

The exterior is fitted with brass corner mounts, side straps, a central brass cartouche and matching escutcheon, all complementing the rich colour and attractive patina of the mahogany.

The fitted interior opens to reveal the original green leather writing surface with gilt-tooled decoration, compartments for stationery and writing accessories, two original glass inkwells with brass lids, and three concealed pull-out drawers beneath the writing surface.

Originally designed as a portable writing desk for travel, writing slopes such as this were favoured by military officers, merchants and gentlemen throughout the Victorian period.

A substantial and decorative example with excellent presence.

Measurements

Weight: 5.25 kg

Height: 17 cm

Closed: 25 × 50.5 cm

Open: 52 × 50.5 cm

Height when open: 4.5–13 cm

Condition

Good antique condition overall, with attractive colour and patina. There are age-related surface scratches, marks and wear to the mahogany, together with some veneer losses and old repairs visible to the sides and edges. The brass mounts show wear, tarnish, small dents and some missing pins. The green leather writing surface has wear, scuffs, scratches, lifting and losses, particularly around the tabs and gilt border. The fitted interior shows wear and staining from use, and the drawer fronts show old surface losses. The original glass inkwells and working key are present.