Writing Slope by Hicks

This writing slope is typical of the look that most people associate with campaign furniture and there is certainly an elegance when brass strap banding is set on mahogany.

The quality of work is very good, as would be expected of a maker such as James Hicks. He took the time to line up all of the numerous steel screws and fitted the box with a 'W. Muckleston Patent' lock. The lock has two locating pins and is operated with a Bramah type key. The box also has a secret drawer working to an unusual format. When the ebonised pent tray is lifted, a well is revealed. Lifting the divider to the side of this well releases a spring loaded drawer housed beneath the inkwell and desk tidy.

The illustrated maker's label is pasted to the underside of the top half of the writing surface with the ivory eschutcheon. It notes Hicks' address of 26 Wigmore Street, Cavendish Square, London as well as the services he offered. James Hicks was active from 1809 to 1837 and is listed in the trade directories as a Portable Writing Desk manufacturer. This slope also has a brass name plate to the top, which is engraved with the initials 'E U'. Also of note is the small size of the box which is unusual for the period. Circa 1825.

Size closed is given.