aesthetic movement desk
wooden, light carving, metal findings and decoration, fold-out writing surface, variety of storage spaces, light and easy to move.
bought from the Italian consulate in Philadelphia in about 1948; has been in our family since then.
Other
Yes
This is a 19th century, Victorian era, Aesthetic Movement style desk from the 1870s - 1880's by Allen and Brothers of Philadelphia. It is done in ebonized wood, decorative metal and spoon carving. The ebonized surface is a nod to Japonism which influenced decorative styles in the Western world when Commodore Perry opened trade with Japan in 1852. The spoon carved surface decoration is Eastlake style. If you have documentation of purchase direct from the Italian Consulate in Philadelphia, that will help sale-ability though it will not raise the value of the piece. The estimate is based on actual recent past recorded auction sales of comparables. Retail 'asking prices' can be higher and vary.
