Harvey's Antiques

Description

A particularly good 19th Century Teak and Brass bound Campaign Writing Slope with an embossed red baize back containing a concertina letter rack above a fully fitted interior with a green gun cloth lined double opening slope, the upper slope with a lock and key opening to reveal a spring loaded false front hiding three small drawers, the lower slope with two brass bolts and opening on a void, the lid supported by a sprung quadrant and the whole box with an elaborate front lock signed “Barron’s Patent” and requiring a metal pin to depress the button to the right of the keyhole to release the hinged keyhole cover which is signed across the front “Jas. Sachan” the missing letters are where the hinged cover has been restored. The full name would have been James Strachan and research shows that he was serving in India.

The Asiatic Register for 1832, Indian Army, Hon. East India Co. (HEIC) entry for The Adjutant General’s Office dated April 23 states: “The following officers to accompany Commander in Chief on a tour of inspection and review through Centre and Mysore divisions: Col.R.B.Fearon, deputy adj-gen.King’s Troops James Strachan, Esq., inspector general of hospitals, ditto: Major W.Strahan, acting qu. mast. gen. of army…..etc.”

Circa. 1820

H: 9”, 23cms, W: 21”, 53cms, D: 12 ”, 31cms.