LOT #43069 |
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U.S. House of Representatives: Circa 1857 Desk....
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Sold on Nov 13, 2023 for:
$22,500.00
Bid Source: Internet bidder
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Description
U.S. House of Representatives: Circa 1857 Desk. The oak desk in this lot was used in Congress from 1857 to 1873. It was designed by Thomas U. Walter, the architect of the Capitol. His renovations culminated in the enlarged dome surmounted by a statue of a Native American princess, emblematic of Liberty. Chairs and desks were ordered as part of an 1857 renovation of the House, overseen by Montgomery C. Meigs. There were 241 Congressmen at that time. When eleven states seceded from the Union, the number of members was reduced to 175. Excess furniture was then distributed to other government buildings and sold to the public. The desk was manufactured by Doe & Hazelton of Boston while the chairs were made by Bembe & Kimble located at 20 Broadway in Manhattan. The desk has a Federal shield decorated with stars and stripes on the top gallery facade, extensive carving including a globe in the half round inscribed "America," four stars encased in circular frames, a lattice-work screen and a hidden shelf. It is 35.5" tall, 29" wide and 21" deep. It has a hinged slant lid with writing compartment and leather writing surface. Inkwells are missing. When the House of Representatives was refurbished in 1873, any remaining desks and chairs were sold off. Examples reside in several museums (Smithsonian Institution, High Museum of Art, Lincoln Memorial University at Harrogate, Chicago History Museum, Ft. Wayne Historical Society).Condition: The overall condition is excellent, looks to be the original finish with normal light expected wear. The hinges on the inkwell door have received repairs. Original casters present. Some provenance and paperwork is included.
Auction Info
2023 November 13 - 14 Americana & Political Signature Auction Signature® Auction #6276 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
November, 2023
13th-14th
Monday-Tuesday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 5
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 792
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% on the first $300,000 (minimum $49), plus 20% of any amount between $300,000 and $3,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $3,000,000 per lot.
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