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antique writing desk with lid, rosewood?

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furniture11 of 22three antique chairsantique walnut gate leg table
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    Posted 3 years ago

    AnythingOb…
    (1778 items)

    Here's another thing rescued today -- this piece has been around somewhere in a (dark) corner nearby my life for nearly 20yrs, and I don't believe I ever really looked closely at it until today. I DON'T KNOW how that really happened -- looking at it while taking it to storage revealed in very short order that it is a WONDERFUL old thing -- something that's probably got to get itself to someplace actually *in the house* whenever I can maybe find a spot for it, because I suddenly now think I like it so much?!! ;-) :-)

    It is a seemingly beautifully made writing desk or secretary desk (is there a more proper term?) with a double hinged lid/cover, concealing a pull-out writing surface, two cubbyhole shelves over two lidded compartments on each side, and five drawers in the middle. It is all wearing its original dark varnished finish over a dark reddish wood color, I also didn't realize until seeing it in sunshine (in the rearview mirror, while moving it) that at least its outer cabinet appears to have rosewood graining t0 it, veneer at least. (I don't know and didn't examine it that closely) The legs are turned with wonderful carved-looking detail at their upper shoulders. Another surprise found when taking pics is the old label underneath it (pic 4) which I think reads "REVELL & CO CHICAGO FURNITURE RUGS AND DRAPERIES" with space for a number to be written on, I can't make out (yet) whether anything is written there or not. (and have not researched the store name)

    Once more, I don't have any kind of specific knowledge about its history, age, or style -- it strikes me as easily late 1800's/early 19's, but that's just guessing. Comments WELCOMED if anybody else can tell me something about it! :-) :-) :-) :-) :-)

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    Comments

    1. keramikos, 3 years ago
      AnythingObscure, I believe what you have would be classified as a spinet desk:

      https://www.burlingtoncountytimes.com/article/20170317/lifestyle/303179760

      https://pressofatlanticcity.com/life/antiques-collectibles-spinet-desk-is-furniture-with-a-dual-purpose/article_201f59a3-48c6-559e-9822-77c2046c98d4.html

      The founder of Revell & Co.:

      https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Revell

      Possibly another picture of him:

      https://www.loc.gov/item/2014692142/

      Part of an Alexander H. Revell & Co. catalog:

      http://www.encyclopedia.chicagohistory.org/pages/10307.html

      All that desk probably needs is a little TLC, starting with some Murphy Oil Soap.
    2. fortapache fortapache, 3 years ago
      Looks perfect for a laptop.

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