This wooden mahogany artifact from the mid nineteenth century is a finely constructed, lockable, and portable writing case or lap desk taken to war by many Civil War officers. Carried in their luggage, this hinged two-piece writing desk measures a relatively compact 11½” long x 8” wide x 4¼” high when closed. The case exterior is covered in a handsome, dark mahogany veneer-like finish that retains its original sheen overall. Box is free of chipping, cracking or edge scuffing. Does show very minor light scratches from storage and use.

Box lid opens upwards and reveals a flat, two-piece writing surface covered in a pleasing but faded red velvet cloth material that extends into the top base of the case. In overall good condition, the thin velvet is decoratively edged. Velvet surface shows slight tearing at the case’s center hinge point as would be expected. Larger upper area of the velvet writing area shows moderate fading from letter use and also a few dark ink drops or spots. No tears or peeling. Each writing surface area opens to reveal a deep compartment below for paper and storage. Both compartments super clean.

Interior case top houses individual compartments for pencils, pens, ink vials and other sundry writing items. Middle compartment has a lift-off wood lid for pencils and pens while the upper right hand corner houses a small, 2” square, pewter-screw topped, glass ink bottle. Visible at the top edge of case is the brass lock shield but the key for this lockable writing lap desk is missing. Bottom exterior of case surface is a painted black paint which shows ample scuffing and wear. A fine piece of  Civil War era Americana.

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