You all were so helpful before, here's another

I work at a thrift store in Greenville, SC (many of you wanted to know ).

This awesome forum was such help before, maybe you can help again. Unfortunately, there is nothing written or a tag on this, but any help would be appreciated. I don't even know what it's called.

Thanks in advance!!

 

a writing desk...?

 

A drop front desk ... Joy.

 

Or secretary.

 

I think this is called a Bombe style desk. Its hard to tell from your pics wether its old or a repro,looks like it is in rough shape.

 

Am I seeing a miniature piece, here?

 

No, just bad pictures.

 

Ah, fair enough.

 

And looks to be missing the two pieces that slide out when you open the lid/writing area.....those two rectangular holes.....

 

I wondered what those were for -- it makes sense now. Thank you!

 

Anyone have any idea how old this might be, or can give me some clues how to find out?

 

I think it is older and someone tried to strip it. Too bad.

I'm sure you already figured out the 3 little pointed areas marked 1 (on each side of the little door) are little drawers.

#2 on each side of the door also pull out for hidden compartments.

Where the "x" is may or may not lift up revealing yet another hidden space.

 

A slant lid desk,Bombay in the Dutch style, guesses late victorian as it has 2 or 3 styles all rolled into one

 

I agree likely from India (or somewhere in Asia) with the tropical secondary wood. Square cut "dovetails" on the drawer make me think more into the 20th century; a pic of the back or underneath could help decide between late victorian and later in the 20th century. Make sure you replace (and use) the missing slides so you don't break the hinges holding the slant-lid on.

 

Here is one on 1stdibs about 1850 Dutch/Netherlands

 

American & English Bombay style desks are different & kinda rare, a difficult build and not real popular as not many around. here is a miniature english bombay, late 18th century from skinner

 

Here are pictures of the bottom and back.

 

Very helpful! Thank you!