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Description
I was told the design and construction of one of these was a treasured tradition. A master craftsman would begin making the desk with his son. Eventually, the father dies, leaving his son to finish it. This son, now a master craftsmen, starts another one with his son.
Category
Furniture
Distinguishing marks
Stamped: "Made in Syria" in several hidden areas.
Condition
Excellent
Date Period
This Davenport Prayer Desk was made in Syria circa 1870.
Price Paid (If known)
It was willed to my grandfather, a very talented antique restorer. I'm his namesake.
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Re: 19th Century Prayer Desk with inlaid Mother of Pearl
Has anyone ever run across one of these?
Re: 19th Century Prayer Desk with inlaid Mother of Pearl
The story is bunk and it's not a prayer desk. It's whats called a Davenport Desk. Most of them date from the mid 19th century, but the "Made in Syria" marking indicates this one is a later reproduction. The modern Syrian state was established after the first World War as a French mandate (1918) . Here is a link for you:
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/search?q=davenport+desk&by_date=2013-11-01T12:58:28.309Z&sort=relevance&dtype=gallery&hasimage=true&type=complete&rows=20&pagenum=2