434 - AN AUSTRIAN GILT-BRASS JEWELED LAP DESK BY AUGUST KLEIN, VIENNA, 19TH CENTURY

AN AUSTRIAN GILT-BRASS JEWELED LAP DESK BY AUGUST KLEIN, VIENNA, 19TH CENTURY An unusual Austrian gilt-brass traveling lap desk or writing box by August Klein of Vienna. Of architectural form with a sloping hinged writing surface and rounded compartment to the rear, the exterior is applied with finely engraved and chased foliate strapwork mounts set with polished banded agate cabochons. The sides are fitted with elaborate engraved swing handles. The front writing panel is engraved with an interlaced monogram and fitted with a keyhole. Opening to reveal a burgundy velvet-lined writing surface and fitted compartments, with the interior of the domed rear cover lined in cream moiré silk. The lock plate and frame are signed "AUGUST KLEIN, WIEN." August Klein was a prominent Viennese manufacturer and retailer of luxury leather goods, writing accessories and decorative objects during the second half of the 19th century. Dimensions: 5 1/2 x 9 3/4 x 11 7/8 in., (14 x 25 x 30cm.) Condition: Very good. General wear and some stains. Minor damages on the velvet. No divisors in the inkwell compartment. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All statements contained in the catalog, condition reports, invoices, advertisements, or elsewhere concerning the authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, period, culture, source, provenance, authenticity, genuineness, condition, rarity, importance, or value of any lot are statements of opinion only and shall not be construed as representations, warranties, or statements of fact. All lots are sold "as-is", refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions does not offer in-house shipping. We will provide a list of recommended shippers upon request.