“Unbelievable! Outstanding!! WOW!!!” These are but a few of the words that come to mind when this desk is seen in person. It is simply “Incredible!”
Made out of tiger maple and cherry, this two part piece is a show stopper. Stylistically, it is based on the work of the Dunlap family in New Hampshire. This famous cabinetmaking family produced in New Hampshire for several generations. They were famous for their use of tiger maple and the meticulous matching of wood grains seen here. Look at the tiger maple and how the stripes carry from one area through to the next. One cannot imagine how much work and materials this took. The Dunlap family craftsmanship was so well thought of that they were copied in New Hampshire and Vermont. (This grouping is called the “School of Dunlap”). We believe this desk is from that group verses the Dunlaps themselves. (There is no provenance with this piece. It was brought to Virginia from the Northeast.)
Overall, it is a two part piece with tiger maple front and cherry top and sides. After one takes in the magnificent wood, the eye drifts to the tambour doors. They are original which is very rare for such an early piece. They work well too. Behind them, are drawers and cubbies. Look closely at the details of the cubbies. These are replicated behind the prospect door. The lower portion of the desk features a large number of drawers. The upper, center drawer opens to reveal a writing surface. This surface would have originally been covered in leather or fabric. Neither has been present in a very long time. Either can be put back on it. Additionally, all of the drawer pulls are replaced but are accurate to what would have been on it. However, it is the base of the desk that steals the show here. Look at the apron and the legs. They are totally original! The shape, design, and piercings are amazing! Lastly, it is this exact design element that leads us to think it is more likely Vermont, than New Hampshire, but this is a “leaning” certainly not a fact.
The desk stands 51 ½” tall, 44” wide, and only 22 ¾” deep. It has been restored at some point in the 20th century and is ready for its new home. Circa 1815.
Price: $9995
If you have any questions or comments and to subscribe to our email list about important updates, recent acquisitions and special deals please fill out the information below.
