Desk
Category
Furniture
Date
1860
Materials
Brass, China, Wood, Wrought iron
Measurements
810 x 1067 x 815 mm
Order this imageCollection
Smallhythe Place, Kent
NT 1117488
Caption
Ellen Terry was a prolific letter writer and preferred to conduct her correspondence at this desk more than any other spot. The double school desk was likely purchased for her children to use for their studies, but Ellen was often pictured composing thoughtful words to friends and family from the wooden bench seat.
Summary
Double school desk, supported by iron legs with attached bench seat with back supported by wrought iron. Sloping hinged desk lids with locks, each with china inkwell with sliding brass cover. Inkwells marked 'George Hammer Strand', footrest marked 'London'. Circa 1860.
Provenance
Used by Ellen Terry's children Gordon and Edith Craig. Always preferred by Ellen Terry to any other writing place.
Marks and inscriptions
LONDON (marked on footrest)