American Gothic Style Mantel Clock Writing Desk
This sensational piece hails from the 19th century and is an impressive example of craftsmanship from the era. The unusual design features a gothic-style mantel clock combined with a writing station. An extravagant piece and elaborately detailed throughout. Overall the case is crafted in exotic burled maple accented with ebony trim and supported on a plinth base. The sloped top of the writing desk is embellished with a beautiful display of marquetry inlays.
The clock portion of the case is appointed with a central spire atop and flanked by turned finials on plinths. Beneath each finial is a storage cabinet above a cubby and two drawers at the center. The desk portion opens to reveal a leather gilt-tooled writing surface. The upper portion of the hinged writing surface folds back to access a sectioned organizer for stationery supplies, which at the time would have included items such as inkwells, pens and nibs, sealing wax, etc.
An 8-day mechanical movement powers the clock and marks the hour and half-hour with a pleasant gong strike, while the time displays on Roman numerals with gothic hands. The timepiece bears a full restoration and a one-year warranty.
This beautiful tabletop piece is an impressive decorative and wonderfully practical.
27″H x 14 1/2″W x 14 1/2″D
Circa 1885