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Writing Desk
View larger image © Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery Additional ImagesClick on each image below to view at full size: |
Basic Information | Accession Number: | 1956M28 |
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Collection: | Applied Art - Furniture |
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Date: | 1866 c - 1866 c |
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Maker Information | Manufacturer: | Charles Lyster - View biography for Charles Lyster |
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Notes | In the past, people communicated by writing letters to each other. In the mid-19th century, portable writing desks like these were very popular for taking on long stays away from home. They were particularly useful for people who travelled in their own carriages. Charles Lyster, a tortoiseshell and pearl manufacturer, made this writing desk for his daughter, Hannah Reading, when she got married. His firm was located at 22, 24, 26 and 28 Spencer Street in Birmingham. Writing boxes were made in all sizes and were commonly made of mahogany, but could also be walnut and rosewood. This example is inlaid with mother-of-pearl and snail shell. | Presented by Mrs Millicent Edith Fletcher, 1956. |
Further Information | Reign: | Queen Victoria |
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Production Period: | 19th century |
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Material(s): | Glass |
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Place of Origin: | Birmingham, England |
Dimensions | Height: | 43 cm |
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Width: | 24 cm |
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Depth: | 15.2 cm |
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