259 - Victorian-era writing desk. England, 19th century.

Victorian-era writing desk. England, 19th century. Wood with brass decorations. Leather lining, showing wear. Exhibits wear consistent with age and use. Features an engraved inscription on a brass plaque. Measurements: 18 x 45 x 25.5 cm. Provenance: Estate of Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. Artistic and heritage collection originating in the legacy of Catalan painters Ramon Martí Alsina (1826–1894), a seminal figure of 19th-century Catalan Realism, and his son Ricard Martí Aguiló (1857–1935). Passed down and enriched across successive generations, the collection brings together works from the original holdings of both artists alongside acquisitions made by their descendants. Dedicated to preserving and recovering the family legacy, the descendants actively reacquired works by the painters as they entered the market, progressively expanding the collection to encompass paintings, sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and other items of artistic and historical significance. British portable or travel writing desk from the Victorian period. When closed, it folds into a rectangular box, with the edges reinforced with brass pieces. When opened, the interior transforms into a writing surface featuring a compartment for an inkwell and pens, and a slanted tray lined with a leather mat. It includes drawers and hidden compartments.