Hi Robert,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Antique lap desks, also known as writing slopes or portable writing desks, were popular from the 18th to early 20th centuries. They were designed for travelers, military officers, and writers who needed a compact, portable workspace.
This example is fairly plain and does not exhibit a fancy inlaid exterior that some have. It is a form that could have been made in America, England or Europe at any time from the mid 19th Century to the early 20th Century.

Unattributed lap desks usually sell for between $150 and $250 when offered at auction

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique Regency or Federal style brass bound mahogany lap desk
American or European, probably mid 19th Century
Of rectangular section, the hinged box with brass mounted corners opening to reveal two baize-lined sections opening to wells, with two inkwells and a reserve for pens.
15 inches wide by 11-1/2 inches deep (closed)
CONDITION: Lid with a crack at one corner; otherwise, this lap desk appears to be in good condition with wear commensurate to age and use.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$150-250*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia