Captain's Desk

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C
Posted by Cam
16 years ago
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Description This is a Jerusalem desk made of olive wood from Jerusalem c. 1750. It was originally owned by a ship's captain, and was on board throughout his voyages for several years. It was purchased as a 200 year old antique in Connecticut 1958, by my husband's grandfather, who was a world traveler. The desk has a hinged top that opens to reveal 2 drawers inside,and a top piece that is not permanently attached, which contains mail slots. The right side opens to reveal 4 drawers, and there is an additional drawer that opens on the top right that contains an ink well. The inscription "Jerusalem" is written on the top front.
Category European Furniture
Medium wood
Distinguishing marks Jerusalem
Condition Good
Size and dimensions of this item 26" w x 39" h x 22" d
Date Period circa 1750
Weight 40 lbs
History Captain's desk, obtained by grandfather in 1958,
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Collector Discussion

Do you recognize this piece? Collectors often identify maker marks, share comparable sales, or suggest additional research steps.

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lilblondeee 🌱 Newbie 16 years ago

ok, i have NO idea what it's worth, but just had to say...... OHHHHHHHH WOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW! gorgeous!!!!!!!!
C
Cam 🌱 Newbie 16 years ago

That it is! I wish I knew more about its history. It's been in the family since 1958, and just this week made its way to my house. My sister in law had it in her home for the nearly 20 years since her grandfather passed away, and decided it no longer fit her decor. I hope to pass it on to my kids some day.
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lilblondeee 🌱 Newbie 16 years ago

"didn't fit her decor?" wow. i guess my house would have been made to fit with the desk's decor! haha! good luck, hope you find out much MUCH more about its history... please, would you let me know what you find out? i'm just fascinated! thanks!
C
Cam 🌱 Newbie 16 years ago

If you're able to read the other comments I get on it you'll know as much as I! Thanks for the interest.
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Lovejoy 🎯 Collector 16 years ago

It's actually what's called a "Davenport" after a Captain Josiah Davenport who had one built in 1790 for his use on a trans-Atlantic journey, the original Davenport desk was produced by a maker named Gillows. By the mid-nineteenth century, the term “Davenport” was used to refer to any small desk with multiple cubbyholes. The vast majority of these pieces, including this one are Victorian examples. Values for them vary a great deal, here's a link for you: http://www.liveauctioneers.com/search?q=davenport+desk&hasimage=true&dtype=gallery&type=complete&fq=&filterlock=&hidefilters=&rows=20
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Master 🌱 Newbie 9 years ago

please let me know if you deside to sell it...

 

 

 

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