Constructed to satisfy the exacting standards of the most honorable Secretary of the Royal Court of Lilliput, this desk was certainly designed to be the most romantic, most precious desk in all the land.

Perfectly crafted of 800 silver, this gleaming miniature piece conceals an alternative use in our large-scale world: the center writing surface lifts to reveal a small compartment to stash pen nibs or postage stamps while the two tiny pull-out drawers would be a handy spot to store matches. 

Found in the treasure-rich markets of Paris, the desk stands confidently on its petite cabriole legs and is embossed throughout with lavishly ornate decoration. On the top surface of the desk, two cherubic putti rest among floral garlands, while on the sides, a pair of tiny castle turrets are seen along with leafy garlands and opulent scrolling flourishes that cover every surface of the desk.

Whether you are an artist, scribe, or belletrist with a penchant for fine writing tools, or a collector of miniature furniture with discerning taste, this enchanting, one-of-a-kind piece will bring you years of delight.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Measures 2.5" H x 2.5" x 2". Circa 1880s. In very good antique condition. 

Learn More About 800 Silver

Most silver items include a stamp to indicate the purity of the silver being used. Items containing the purest forms of silver would be labeled .999, but in reality, silver is too soft to be used in manufacture unless it is mixed with other metals. When metals are combined, they are known as alloys. Thus, most silver, including items that are known as sterling silver, fall into the alloy category. For an item to be deemed sterling silver, 92.5% of the metal content in the alloy must be pure silver. Hence, many sterling silver items are labeled .925.

Below are some of the most common types of silver alloys, with information on how they are often marked:

• Brittania silver (950): Brittania silver is an alloy made of 95% silver, which exceeds the requirement for sterling silver. It is most often marked 950. This silver qualifies as sterling, but it is slightly softer than sterling pieces marked 925 or simply sterling.
• Sterling silver (925): This is the standard for silver, identifying a silver item that is at least 92.5% silver mixed with copper to give it strength. Marks on these pieces include 925 or Sterling. Any mark indicating a higher silver content, such as 950, would also qualify as sterling.
• Coin silver (900): Since it is only 90% silver, this alloy cannot be referenced as sterling. Items made from this alloy may include marks such as 900, Coin, and Standard.
• European silver (800): Sometimes referred to as continental silver, this is another non-sterling type of silver alloy. Marks can include 800, 825, 830, or 850, indicating 80, 82.5, 83, and 85% silver content, respectively.