Charles Dickens' elaborate writing desk, a treasured artifact, went under the hammer.
Writing Your Way Through Time: A Glimpse into Charles Dickens' World
Charles Dickens, the legendary figure of 19th-century English literature, is still captivating readers with masterpieces like "Great Expectations" and "Oliver Twist". But beyond the pages of his books, his personal possessions offer a captivating glance into his life and creative process.
Here's Something You Might Find Interesting: As cookout season kicks off, here are the top grilling recipes to impress your friends [recipes]
Fans and collectors had a chance to own one of these iconic artifacts: the intricate travel desk that Dickens used on his journeys, adorned with his initials.
Recently auctioned by RR Auction, this portable writing surface combines practicality with elegance. Made of mahogany and showcasing elaborate marquetry, it reflects Dickens' appreciation for both aesthetics and functionality.
Intriguing Fact: Hurricane season has officially begun! Brush up on your evacuation plan [safety tips]
When closed, the desk measures approximately 14.0 inches by 9.5 inches by 3.5 inches, making it easy to carry for an author constantly on the move. Inside, it features a leather writing surface and a mahogany compartment, designed to store ink bottles and a letter opener.
The desk houses an inscription: "Writing Box and Penholder, a gift to Evelyn on the occasion of her appointment as school teacher," adding a personal touch to this historic item.
The auction wrapped up on May 14, 2025, with the travel desk selling for around $8,000, underlining its historical and sentimental value.
Extra Insight: Discover the latest updates on Phase 4 of Marvel Cinematic Universe [movie news]
In addition to the travel desk, the auction also offered a set of monogrammed cutlery belonging to Dickens. This collection, consisting of 32 pieces (10 dessert spoons, 10 forks, 10 teaspoons, 2 salt cellars, all originating from Gad's Hill Place) sold for approximately $6,000.
From the Vault: Take a look at the rare antique books display at the British Library [book review]
Each piece showcases the author's initials in elegant script, accompanied by the distinctive design of violin leaves. The cutlery, manufactured by Martin, Hall & Co. of Sheffield around 1860, showcases Dickens' refined lifestyle.
Surprising Trivia: Dickens had a unique fascination for collecting objects related to his personal and professional life. One of the quirkiest items in his collection was a letter opener fashioned from the preserved paw of his cherished cat, Bob [cat trivia]
The travel desk and monogrammed cutlery reveal not only a glimpse into Dickens' personal life but also serve as a testament to the bygone literary era. By owning these pieces, collectors and admirers have an opportunity to connect with one of the most influential authors in English literature.
- Despite his popular literature, Dickens' personal lifestyle remains intriguing, with items such as his travel desk and monogrammed cutlery offering insights into his daily life.
- The travel desk, with its elaborate marquetry and initialed mahogany, symbolizes Dickens' appreciation for both aesthetics and practicality.
- Measuring approximately 14.0 inches by 9.5 inches by 3.5 inches, the travel desk was compact enough for an author constantly on the move.
- Inside the desk, one finds a leather writing surface and a mahogany compartment designed to store ink bottles and a letter opener.
- The desk houses an inscription, adding a personal touch: "Writing Box and Penholder, a gift to Evelyn on the occasion of her appointment as school teacher."
- At a 2025 auction, the travel desk sold for around $8,000, underlining its historical and sentimental value.
- Alongside the travel desk, a set of monogrammed cutlery belonging to Dickens was also up for auction, consisting of 32 pieces that sold for approximately $6,000.
- Each piece of the monogrammed cutlery showcases Dickens' refined lifestyle, with his initials in elegant script and the distinctive design of violin leaves.
- Beyond his books, Dickens collected a wide array of items, such as a letter opener fashioned from the preserved paw of his cherished cat, Bob.
- Mocktails and barbecue recipes are perfect for the summer season, offering a refreshing twist to your typical cookout fare.
- Amidst the sci-fi and fantasy genres, the latest updates on Phase 4 of Marvel Cinematic Universe promise thrilling developments for fans.
- With Hurricane season now in full swing, staying prepared with an evacuation plan is essential for your safety and peace of mind.
- For sports enthusiasts, the excitement of the new NBA, MLB, NHL, NBA College Basketball, and Grand Prix seasons is just around the corner.
- From auto-racing events to mixed martial arts matches, there's no shortage of adrenaline-pumping action for sports fans this summer.
