Walnut Writing Slope

The writing slope (also referred to as a writing box or lap desk) is a wood box with, when opened, a slanted surface, usually covered with leather making it a surface conducive for writing. It was portable and equipped with one or two small traveling inkwells, along with space to store paper and other writing essentials.

A writing slope was a personal possession and not part of the household. It would accompany the owner in his travels, whether on a military expedition, traveling, or visiting a library or household. With its brass banding to the outer body, the slope pictured may well have traveled with a military officer.

This writing slope has a working lock and key. The exterior is a walnut veneer, and inside one finds a rich mahogany. It has its original burgundy leather skiver with gold tooling and a screw top traveling inkwell. (Pictured for a closer look are two traveling screw lid inkwells one would typically find in a writing slope).