Antique William Colsey Mansion House London Rosewood & Brass Writing Slope Box (Code 2080)

A beautifully rich toned rosewood and brass inlaid writing slope dating to the early 19th century. It opens to reveal an embossed green felted writing surface. As expected the writing surface opens on both sides to reveal storage spaces below. The top section has an inkwell which may be original, a lidded pen area and further smaller lidded compartment. There is also a stamp well. The base drawer is held with a brass security pin which when removed allows the drawer to be opened. The drawer allows for further secured storage when the box is locked.

The most exciting feature is that there is the original paper label to the inside of the drawer. This reveals the maker as William Colsey operating at Mansion House in London. This maker is known to have operated there from 1802 to 1829, and there is also a criminal prosecution record of four of his writing desks being stolen in 1830. The style of this slope with the brass inlay is usually given as slightly later and into the Victorian period but William Colsey is listed as being in Greenwich by 1839. It is then perhaps likely this writing slope is George IV or William IV in period. This also suggests this style of slope does date back a little earlier than generally thought.


Condition

A very good example for the period, exterior in nice condition. The lock functions and the catches and hinges are fine. There is of course some wear and one of the ribbon holders to the interior has parted. There is a small piece of the rosewood veneer missing from the internal hinge area. Overall a handsome example with great colour.


Measurements (Approx)

Height: 16.1 cm ( 6 1/4 inch)

Width: 40.6 cm ( 16 inch)

Depth: 23.7 cm ( 9 3/8 inch)

Weight: 4160 grams (before packing).



Stock Code: 2080 MR20-3