A davenport is a small writing desk with a sloping writing surface above a case of drawers that open from one side, the other side usually having false drawer fronts. Compact and practical, it was designed for writing letters in a drawing room, boudoir or study, or for use on board ship.
The name is traditionally linked to a design made by Gillows of Lancaster in the late eighteenth century for a Captain Davenport, recorded in the firm's records. Early examples tend to be plain and compact, often in mahogany or rosewood, sometimes with a sliding top that pulls forward over the user's knees and a pen and ink drawer at the side. The form became extremely popular during the Victorian period, when davenports were made in walnut, burr walnut and rosewood, often with a hinged stationery compartment at the back, piano-shaped tops, carved scroll supports and inlay. Collectors look for good figure, original handles and leather, sound hinges and a working locking mechanism. The term is also associated with the Davenport pottery of Longport in Staffordshire, which should not be confused with the desk. A davenport makes an ideal small desk in modern homes.
