Desk (USA), ca. 1875 (CH 18655313-5)

Upright rectangular form of solid oak construction; surface covered with carved and incised decoration of naturalistic and stylized floral and vegetal motifs, and geometric patterns in neo-gothic style; upper section composed of drop front writing surface that opens to reveal drawers and pigeon hole compartments; lower section is a two door cupboard surmounted by narrow drawer; another narrow drawer with open shelf above forms top of desk, a highly carved figure of an owl on each side at front. Drop front, cupboard doors, and drawers fitted with patinated, elaborately cast ornamental strap hinges, lock plates, and pulls, probably nickel-plated bronze.