19th Century American Cutler & Sons Model 1 Roll Top Desk

Presenting a glorious piece of Americana namely, a 19th century American Cutler & Sons model 1 roll top desk.

This is the prototype of the well-known Cutler & Sons patented desk and could very possibly be the exhibition piece for the Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia in 1876.

Known as Model No 1 this desk was one of the very first model desks made by Cutler to show off its recently patented roll top or cylinder fronted desk with the front of the desk folding under the desk section.

You will see the marketing brochure (with the photos) wherein this desk is called “The Best Cylinder Desk in the World. Cutler’s Patent Business Desks. No 1. Full French Plate Glass Top, elegantly paneled and veneered front, ends and back.” The pricing is noted thereon as $162.

Made of a combination of walnut with gorgeous burl walnut panels. Stunning swirl detail to the back and sides.

The French plate glass panels are all original with beveled edges.

The removable interior shelving consists of 12 cubbies with 4 drawers attached by 2 brass rods and a central brass carousel clip holder with the word ‘standard’.

The desk is lined with green felt or baize.

The base section consists of 2 pullout / pull-out writing panels and 4 drawers on either pillar. 3 small and one larger one to the bottom. The drawers are full marked (see photos).

Fantastic detail throughout and in great condition for its age.

The reason we believe that this could easily have been one of the desks, Cutler exhibited in Philadelphia in 1876, is because it is one of their very rare model number 1 desks and the detail and quality is what one would expect in an exhibition piece. The glass panels on all sides and on the top are clearly designed so that one can still view the interior with the desk front up. What better way to show off or exhibit your newly patented roll top mechanism?

Provenance: From an Outstanding Private Dallas collection.

Condition: Very good. Some minor losses through age and use but nothing significant.

Dimensions: 57 inches tall, 58 inches wide and 36.5 inches deep. Knee Clearance of 29.75 inches. Base section is 30.5 inches tall.