The comb-back writing desk features a traditional sack-back style Windsor with a comb. It includes a Philadelphia style oval seat, with arms made of a single, steam-bent piece of wood. This particular piece uses the Rhode Island style legs with a bulb at the bottom of the baluster (circa 1780-1800) because the majority of Windsor writing desks were produced in nearby Connecticut. Like many writing-arm Windsors, mine is an adaptation of a normal Windsor with a writing paddle substituted for the original arm. I use a Rhode Island style arm support to match the rest of the chair’s design, duplicating the turnings.
Each chair begins with locally milled green lumber. Every seat is hand-carved from Eastern White Pine. I do all of my turnings by hand on a lathe out of maple or black birch. Every spindle is rived (split) from the log and shaved on a shave horse to ensure the grain is left unbroken from end to end. This traditional process is repeated on the chair’s back before steaming and bending. The legs are set using a traditional tapered lock joint, which increases the chair’s stability. Finally everything is wedged, hand sanded and finished with your choice of milk paint. The chair is shown with a two-colored distressed finish baring natural oak and is included in the price.
Each piece is custom made-to-order (distressing will vary by piece), please allow 6-8 weeks. The price is for local pick up only. I can help you arrange shipping; I offer standard crating and white glove delivery (pricing will vary).
Have any questions?
Contact the shop owner.
