Large Georgian Writing Slope with Inkwells, Secret Drawers & Key, circa 1815

An impressive looking large George III solid mahogany writing slope with two large brass screw topped inkwells, an extremely well hidden secret draw, and what looks to be the original lock and key. Because of the original design regarding the fitment of the lock, the key has to be inserted upside down, but still opens clockwise. The corners and edges are reinforced with an attractive assortment of shaped brass. There is a large central vacant oval brass cartouche on the top, and to the front of the lock, there is a typical small Georgian escutcheon. Because of the size of the writing slope, the top has been made from two sections of mahogany. There are brass carrying handles on either side, one of which doubles up to pull out a large drawer from the base, that extends to the length of the entire writing slope. The brass pin must firstly be pulled out. The slope has been fitted with a new burgundy leather skiver, with gold and blind tooling. Both the writing slope flaps can be raised in order to access storage areas beneath. At the top end, the inkwells (which are quite likely the original ones) are situated next to each other, on the right-hand side. To the left of these, there is a pen-tray with removable pen-tilt. At the far left end, there is the secret drawer - to view this, you firstly have to remove the central pen-tilt. What looks to be the dividing section, is in fact the end of the secret drawer, and this can be used to slide the drawer from its hiding place. One interesting point, during the restoration process, I suspected there was a secret drawer, but I couldn't locate it. This was mainly because it had been glued in place, many years ago. After breaking the glue and allowing the drawer to slide out, I found two black lumps with Chinese writing on it. I initially thought this to be some sort of 19th century opium, because of where it was! After a bit of research, I think it is in fact Chinese black tea. I've left in place for the buyer to scrutinize! Cleaned, given a coat of wax and polished. The base has also been fitted with new green baize. In overall excellent condition once more. Measurements: 53 cm wide (inc' handles), just over 30 cm deep, and just over 18 cm high. Aftercare: Cleaned and restored (where necessary) to a high presentable standard. Occasionally wipe over with a soft cloth. From time to time, use a spray furniture polish containing bees wax, to maintain its satin sheen. Please don't use a silicone spray as this could have a detrimental effect on the waxed surface.