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Masonic Sideboard with writing surface
1795-1815
Maker not marked
USA: New York or New England
Mahogany, inlay, wool, metal
overall: 40-1/2"h x 73"w x 25-3/8"d
Special Acquisitions Fund
81.1

Brown Masonic sideboard with a false center drawer that opens to reveal a slide out writing surface. A design of Masonic square and compasses is inlaid on the door of the central compartment. Green baize (wool) covering on writing surface.


In the early 1800s, furniture makers developed new forms designed for particular purposes, such as sideboards for serving food and drink. This object was also crafted with specific tasks in mind. The two large drawers held bottles. The shallow drawers, cubby holes and felt-covered writing surface of the desk facilitated organizing and conducting correspondence. An inlaid Masonic symbol, a square and compasses, at the center of the desk suggests that this object may have been made for a Masonic lodge—a venue where both record keeping and sociability took place.



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