Portable Writing Desk, circa 1850

01

Artifact Overview

Made of mahogany, ivory, and brass, this portable writing desk has a mechanism for copying text and secret drawers for hiding documents. Thomas Jefferson designed a similar combination portable writing desk and copying press. This may be an example of his design made in England or France, or it may be the product of another clever inventor.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Portable desk

Date Made

circa 1850

Creator Notes

Possibly made in England or France; it may have been based on a design by Thomas Jefferson.

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in With Liberty & Justice for All

Object ID

35.326.5

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Mahogany (Wood)
Pine (Wood)
Brass (Alloy)
Ivory (Tooth component)

Dimensions

Height: 8.25 in
Width: 12.5 in
Length: 17.75 in