Writing box

This mahogany writing box was designed 'for travelling in any part of the world' according to its manufacturer. The desk folds out from the box and has a sloped baize-covered surface. It also features compartments for pens and ink. Portable writing desks were popular among middle and upper class people who had the means to travel. They could be used in the lap whilst travelling by carriage.

This desk was originally purchased from a showroom in the City of London. It was made in a factory across the river in Southwark. The manufacturer Gaimes' clientele would have been predominantly middle class.