The historic slope-top Davenport desk once owned by the great writer, poet, and playwright Oscar Wilde, is set to fetch an estimated €6,000-€8,000 (roughly $7,000-9,000) at auction in Ireland. The Fonsie Mealy’s Summer Fine Art & Antique Sale will take place at their auction house in Co Kilkenny on June 18 and 19, where lovers of literature and Wilde will get the opportunity to own this literary heritage. This writing desk will be auctioned alongside an antique bed that once belonged to Wilde’s mother, Lady Jane Wilde. The bed’s estimated to fetch about €3,000- €4,000 (roughly $4,000-5,000).
Crafted in richly figured rosewood by the most celebrated Lancaster-based firm Gillows of Lancaster, it is the very own writing desk that Wilde used during his prime time to pen down many of his greatest works, including his notorious work ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray.’
Made in 1830, the desk is outfitted with a roll forward, upper writing section that smoothly glides outward when in use to provide a generous space to write, exposing a satinwood-lined interior. Design-wise, the desk is quite accessible with the retractable sleeve drawers in the rear to hold inkwells. One can easily access anything from these drawers while writing.
Structurally, this literary furniture features four functioning drawers on each side. One of the drawers has an inscription with ink that reads, ‘FROM M. MENPES, 1938, OSCAR WILDE’S WRITING DESK.’ There is another, personally dedicated to Wilde’s friend Mortimer Menpes that reads, ‘MORTIMER MENPES godfather of Vyvyan Beresford Holland 1938, Lin? – It being his father’s desk. OSCAR WILDE. Library C.A.L.’
Speaking of craftsmanship, this writing desk still preserves its Moroccan leather surface. However, the surface is heavily worn, deeply patinated, and regardless, it creates a rich anecdote of extended and meaningful use throughout the years. It is believed that this desk, which stood in his study for years at 16 Tite Street, Chelsea, was Wilde’s companion during his most productive years. However, it was removed by his friend shortly before the court summoned an auction of Wilde’s prized possessions following his trial and imprisonment in 1895.
Also Read: Adjustable Footrest for Work Desk Redefines Comfort and Leg Positions While Working
The Davenport desk is a true relic, a treasured heirloom for literary fanatics. It has every corner etched with aesthetic history, mechanical ingenuity, and fine craftsmanship of the Victorian era, holding prominence to this date.
Via: Fonsie Mealy’s
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