Hill & Millard Desk

To look at this mahogany desk set up it is difficult to believe that it was made to dismantle for travel.

However, as can be seen the top section lifts off the two pedestals. The cupboard door, which hinges by pins fitted to the top and plinth base, will then lift off as will the cupboard's backboard and shelf. The two pedestals also lift off and the plinth base is left. The construction and weight of the top is such that no bolts or catches are needed to lock the whole in place when set up. The high top of the desk has a leather surface which can be used if stood but, as can be seen, the desk also has a pullout secretaire with a fall front decorated with dummy drawers. The figured walnut veneered interior has a further hinged, pullout slope board and is fitted with drawers and trays etc. separated by ebonized dividers. The slope board is fitted with criss-cross ribbons to its back to hold papers. When the right hand, top long drawer of the interior is removed, access can be gained to a release button for the paper tidy, which will pull out and stand up to reveal two velvet lined secret drawers. This patented design can also be found on secretaire campaign chests by the company.

The desk has an engraved ivory plague giving the company's name and address of 7 Duncannon Street, London as well as noting the patent date of Jan 1873. This is typical of others we have seen on their secretaire campaign chests. The locks are also stamped with Hill & Millard's details, which again was commonly done by the company. Although we have seen a standard pedestal desk before by Hill & Millard, this is the first of this design we have seen. As you would expect from Hill & Millard, it is well made and the design offers a variety of good storage with little space not utilized. An important and rare piece of campaign furniture. Circa 1875.