1800'S Late 1800'S Antique Roll Top Desk
The late 1800's was a time of great innovation and progress, especially in the field of furniture design. One of the most iconic pieces of furniture to come out of this era was the roll top desk, a beautiful and functional piece that was popular with both professionals and homeowners alike. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history and design of the 1800's late 1800's antique roll top desk.
The History of the Roll Top Desk
The roll top desk can trace its origins back to the 18th century, when a Frenchman named Abbe Saurin designed a desk with a sliding tambour door that could be used to conceal papers and other items. However, it wasn't until the late 1800's that the roll top desk as we know it today was developed.
The first roll top desks were made by combining the tambour door design with the cylinder desk, a popular desk style of the time. The result was a desk with a curved top that could be rolled down to cover the desk's surface and drawers. This design was not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also provided a level of privacy and security for the desk's contents.
The Design of the Roll Top Desk
The roll top desk was designed to be both beautiful and functional. It typically features a large, flat writing surface with drawers and compartments for storing papers and other items. The desk's most distinctive feature, of course, is the curved roll top that can be rolled down to cover the desk's surface and drawers.
The roll top itself is made up of thin wooden slats that are glued together and mounted on a flexible backing. This allows the roll top to curve smoothly without cracking or breaking. The roll top is also fitted with a locking mechanism that can be used to secure the desk's contents.
The Materials Used in Roll Top Desks
Roll top desks were typically made from high-quality hardwoods such as oak, mahogany, or walnut. These woods were chosen for their strength, durability, and beauty. The desk's hardware, including the locks, hinges, and drawer pulls, were also made from high-quality materials such as brass or iron.
The desks were often finished with a rich stain or varnish that brought out the natural beauty of the wood. Some desks were also decorated with intricate carvings or inlaid designs that added to their beauty and elegance.
The Popularity of Roll Top Desks
Roll top desks were incredibly popular during the late 1800's and early 1900's. They were used by professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and businessmen to store important documents, as well as by homeowners who appreciated their beauty and functionality.
Today, antique roll top desks are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. They are prized for their beauty, craftsmanship, and historical significance. If you're lucky enough to own an antique roll top desk, you have a valuable piece of history that is sure to be cherished for generations to come.
Caring for Your Antique Roll Top Desk
If you own an antique roll top desk, it's important to take good care of it to ensure that it stays in good condition. Here are a few tips for caring for your desk:
- Keep your desk out of direct sunlight, which can cause the wood to fade and dry out.
- Avoid placing hot or cold items directly on the desk's surface, as this can cause damage to the wood.
- Clean your desk regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Use a high-quality furniture polish to protect and nourish the wood.
- Have any repairs or restorations done by a professional antique furniture restorer to ensure that the desk is properly cared for.
Conclusion
The 1800's late 1800's antique roll top desk is a beautiful and functional piece of furniture that has stood the test of time. Its innovative design, high-quality materials, and historical significance make it a highly sought-after item among collectors and enthusiasts. If you're lucky enough to own one of these desks, be sure to take good care of it so that it can be enjoyed for generations to come.
