Portable Writing Desk, circa 1850
Add to SetSummary
Made of mahogany, ivory, and brass, this portable writing desk has a mechanism for copying text and secret drawers for hiding documents. Thomas Jefferson designed a similar combination portable writing desk and copying press. This may be an example of his design made in England or France, or it may be the product of another clever inventor.
Made of mahogany, ivory, and brass, this portable writing desk has a mechanism for copying text and secret drawers for hiding documents. Thomas Jefferson designed a similar combination portable writing desk and copying press. This may be an example of his design made in England or France, or it may be the product of another clever inventor.
Artifact
Portable desk
Date Made
circa 1850
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Possibly made in England or France; it may have been based on a design by Thomas Jefferson.
On Exhibit
at Henry Ford Museum in With Liberty & Justice for All
Object ID
35.326.5
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Mahogany (Wood)
Pine (Wood)
Brass (Alloy)
Ivory (Tooth component)
Dimensions
Height: 8.25 in
Width: 12.5 in
Length: 17.75 in
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