Writing slope

[Vix228]

Hi I have inherited a writing slope from my grandmother, and am looking for some information about it.

I have been on google etc but have been unable to match the one I own to anything I have seen.

It is dark wood, possibly walnut or mahogany? (Either way it is VERY heavy)

It has a dark green velvet writing area, one glass inkwell, compartment for pens/nibs etc and a "secret" hidden drawer underneath

You can also lift both sides of the writing slope to reveal further storage.

The fittings and adornments appear to be brass. I also have the key and the locking mechanism still works.

If anyone can offer any information on period, value etc I would be very grateful, I have included a couple of photo's.

There were also a couple of nibs in the compartments, including what I believe to be a Jospeh Gillott Crow Quill and R.Esterbrook nib and Hinks & Wells nibs. Not sure if these might relate to age of the slope itself?

Thank you in advance for any help anyone can give.

(ps there are no obvious makers marks, symbols etc to be found - a real mystery for us!!)

:-)

[KC]

These writing slopes/boxes are collectible!!!!

Nice that you have a piece of your family history.  You need to document all you can about how your grandmother received this, approximate time line/history.  Any pics of it in your families' pics from the past, etc.

Check it over for any markings.

Although you have some great name nibs, etc...it doesn't indicate the true age of your slope because they can always be purchased separately.  That is where your family documentation comes into play.

Beautiful piece.  These sell from $250 - $500 depending on area, condition, consumer demand.

What a great family heirloom.

[Vix228]

Thank you for your response KC, it is a lovely piece but it's provenance is a complete mystery, My Nan had dementia and had no recollection of where this came from and there are absolutely no marks on it, we were quite excited when we found the "secret compartment" thinking it would have a clue in it, but sadly not.

Will check photo's etc but am not holding out much hope, she kept it in her wardrobe! hehe

Thanks again

[mart]

Can you take a good pic of the top, the joinery, and one of the lock ??  Might help to date it !! Also if you would take the interior again but stand back a bit so we can see the entire thing !!  Saw one earlier that was made similar to this but less brass outside !!

[Vix228]

Are these any help....

Thank you

[mart]

Your lap desk appears to me to be late 20`s or 30`s deco style !! Hardware also looks from that time period !!  Not sure that lining is original,, looks like it was maybe relined late 40`s or 50`s !!  Value on these can run $200. up !! If it was relined that may affect value a bit !!  It does look like mahogany to me !!

[Vix228]

Thank you Mart, that is very useful information :-)