Slant-Front Desk and Bookcase, 1750-1780

01

Artifact Overview

American businessmen and merchants in the mid-18th century used secretary desks as home offices. These large desks provide a writing surface, shelves for books and a storage space for papers -- perhaps even a secret drawer for important documents. Placed in a parlor or other public room, this secretary projected the owner's wealth and social status to visitors.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Bureau-bookcase

Date Made

1750-1780

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

61.167.9

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Mahogany
Cedar
Glass (Material)
Brass (Alloy)

Dimensions

Height: 100.5 in (Total Height)
Width: 46.75 in (top)
Length: 16 in (top)
Height: 56.5 in (top)
Width: 45.75 in (bottom)
Length: 25 in (bottom)
Height: 44 in (bottom)

Slant-Front Desk and Bookcase, 1750-1780