3091
Leuchars & Son travel table with gaming and desk combination
London 2nd half 19th C. Mahogany, solid and veneered. Scissor legs, folding frame with two-part square gaming table with green felt inlay, underneath a folding desk compartment with letter trays, holders for fountain pen, letter opener and inkwell in leather and on the opposite side a compartment with spring mechanism for documents or gaming utensils. Manufacturer's and retailer's mark.
H 73, W 60, D 60 cm.
The practical multifunctional travel furniture - nowadays largely replaced by notebooks or smartphones - is an expression of the sophisticated English travel culture of the late 19th century. It takes a look back at the travellers of the Grand Tour, who did not want to do without their comforts on the road.
While numerous folding pieces of furniture were created in the London environment of the exclusive travel outfitters in the 2nd half of the 19th century, the present example by the firm Leuchars & Son is distinguished above all by its multifunctionality. In London, Leuchars & Son manufactured travel desk drawers, toiletries, clocks and gaming trunks. The combination of folding furniture with desk and play function is a highlight of travel furniture that conquered Great Britain as well as the continent. The present example was sold in Paris, where Leuchars & Son was represented in the upmarket retail trade until it opened its own branch in the luxurious Rue de la Paix in 1870. From here, the small piece of furniture went on its journey.
Statement: Victoria & Albert Museum, London, 05.01.1984.

Condition report