Complete restoration - repair crack across top from shrinkage - all brass corners loose, interior panel that conceals drawers was missing, hinges stripped out, refinish mahogany with oak dye and gloss lacquer rubbed to satin. The upholstery part ...... Lay new leather top and gold tool the edges. New key to fit old lock. This was one of the biggest desks I've seen in this style - a months work on and off. It's mine - garage sale find for $ 30.00 due to prior damaged condition.
SA
(https://forum.upholster.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi934.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fad181%2FSteveA_2010%2Fth_Lap-Desk%25206_zpsqwgxcrju.jpg&hash=6a8038a009d8ab515206b71d45fee742) (http://s934.photobucket.com/user/SteveA_2010/media/Lap-Desk%206_zpsqwgxcrju.jpg.html)
(https://forum.upholster.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi934.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fad181%2FSteveA_2010%2Fth_Lap-Desk%25209_zpsno78v8od.jpg&hash=a4f103943f104118618df91c2d10a64d) (http://s934.photobucket.com/user/SteveA_2010/media/Lap-Desk%209_zpsno78v8od.jpg.html)
(https://forum.upholster.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi934.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fad181%2FSteveA_2010%2Fth_Lap-Desk%25208_zpspsjaplms.jpg&hash=e62f08ca51e400b12aa50716a0998daa) (http://s934.photobucket.com/user/SteveA_2010/media/Lap-Desk%208_zpspsjaplms.jpg.html)
Nice desk Steve. That must have been fun to restore. Especially for yourself.
Awesome. I love cool things like this. :)
Love it! Is it, as it sounds, a desk that sits on your lap or are there legs still to be attached? How old is that sucker?
Virginia
You know I may have mis-spoke regarding its use. I told you it was a big desk and maybe more than you would really sit on your lap but not impossible. It is Campaign furniture from the late 19th century. I can tell the age by the kind of mahogany, stamped brasses, and joinery. The handles on the side make it more of a portable desk than a lap desk but good catch there V.
SA
Either way that is one gorgeous item Steve. I'm actually kind of jealous of you. First you found it. Second you could do the refinish on the wood as well as the upholstery. You have every right to be proud of that piece!
Virginia