Design for Rectangular Writing Table with Carved Shell Decoration on Backboard
1900â05
Medium
furniture
Classification
furniture
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of The Lake St. Louis Historical Society
Accession Number
2000-69-291
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This elegant design for a writing table, created by the A.N. Davenport Co. 1900–1905, exemplifies early 20th-century American furniture craftsmanship. The Boston-based firm was renowned for producing high-quality, custom pieces that blended functionality with ornate detailing, often drawing on historical revival styles popular during the Progressive Era. Here, the standout feature is the carved shell decoration on backboard—a motif evoking maritime elegance and natural forms, which added a touch of whimsy and luxury to domestic spaces. As a design drawing rather than a finished piece, it offe...