Secretary Desk, circa 1870

Summary

Secretary desks are offices and work spaces. They provide a writing surface, storage space and book shelves. But some are much more -- they are symbols of the owner's education, wealth and social status. James Latta -- a Harvard graduate, successful businessman and special commissioner to the 1873 Vienna Exposition -- had this imposing piece of furniture made for his home in Washington, D.C.

Secretary desks are offices and work spaces. They provide a writing surface, storage space and book shelves. But some are much more -- they are symbols of the owner's education, wealth and social status. James Latta -- a Harvard graduate, successful businessman and special commissioner to the 1873 Vienna Exposition -- had this imposing piece of furniture made for his home in Washington, D.C.

Artifact

Cylinder desk and bookcase

Date Made

circa 1870

Creators

Unknown

Place of Creation

United States, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 

Fully Furnished
 On Exhibit

at Henry Ford Museum in Fully Furnished

Object ID

68.78.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Benjamin S. Warren, Jr.

Material

Maple (Wood)
Walnut (Wood)

Color

Brown
Gold (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 118.5 in

Width: 32 in

Length: 81 in

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