Whaling Captain's lap desk, 1868, excellent condition, all origin...

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Whaling Captain's lap desk, 1868, excellent condition, all original, PRICE REDUCED

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Whaling Captain's lap desk, 1868, excellent condition, all original, PRICE REDUCED

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Sold Date: 11/20/2004
Channel: Retail
Source: GoAntiques
Category: Fine Art

This three-part mahogany lap desk bears an ivory plaque on the lid, inscribed: Captn. J.O. Norton, Whaler Ionia, 1868. It is quite obviously hand-engraved, with the engravers layout marks still faintly visible. This plaque was attached to the top of the desk after the desk was made.

It was not unusual during the 19th Century for the owners of a ship to make a gift to the captain after a particularly profitable voyage, and that might have been the case here. It has also been established that Captain Norton attained the age of 50 in 1868, so this desk may have been a gift celebrating his reaching this milestone.

It is in completely original condition, including the leather writing surface and the exterior finish. There are minor signs of wear, but no signs of much use or any abuse.

The elaborately-inlaid top is of quilted mahogany, with inlays of ivory and silver. The writing surface has a gold-leaf border, with only slight wear.

This is an extraordinarily fine lap desk, with a great New England whaling history, and would grace any collection. Signed and dated artifacts having to do with whaling are rarely available for sale, as they are either passed down through families, or find their way into museums. You may not see another.

Many more detailed photos are available upon request, as are the results of research into the ship and her captain. The Research Department at Mystic Seaport has kindly provided information about the ship and Captain Norton, which is available to potential buyers.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE that this is authentic - NOT a reproduction. This is a guarantee.

Please dont hesitate to ask questions, request more photos, etc. , and please take time to view our other offerings. We have some fine antique American 18th and 19th Century furniture, nautical antiquities, including pond yachts and navigation instruments, and a few rare antique tools.