[Brontë, Charlotte].

last quarter eighteenth century, the sloping top with a reading ledge above a frieze drawer, on moulded square legs joined by stretchers, 864mm. (height) by 640mm. (width) by 448mm. (depth)



There is a metal plaque attached to a horizontal ledge at the back of the desk. This reads 'Desk Belonging to Charlotte Brontë Displayed in Memory of W. Law Esq.'



This, and the following two lots, were formerly part of the collection of William Law (c.1836-1901). Law was an avid collector of Brontëana and made numerous visits to Haworth which included purchases from Charlotte Brontë's widower, the Rev. A.B. Nicholls. After the formation of the Brontë Museum Law donated a number of items but also gave material to the nurse who attended to him before his death. Material from the same source was previously offered in these rooms, 16 December 2004, lots 111-119.

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."