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.
Long Description
I was toldĀ theĀ design and construction of one of theseĀ was a treasured tradition. Ā AĀ master craftsman would beginĀ making the desk with his son.Ā Ā Eventually, the father dies, leavingĀ his sonĀ to finishĀ it.Ā This son, now a master craftsmen, starts another one with his son.
Price Paid (If known)
It was willed to my grandfather, a very talented antique restorer. I'm his namesake.
For Sale?
No
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-ā¦