Trying to identify the lock on a captain's desk

sshubinski

I just recently bought a captains desk at auction. There are no makers markings on the desk other than the drawer locks. The lock for the slant top has what appears to be a crown with V.R underneath and the words “Patent” over “Lever” to the right. The other 4 drawer locks all have the same marking. “Lever” over “Lock”. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks in advance!

Paul Prescott

Those markings are not going to help much. VR could indicate made in the reign of Queen Victoria (certainly not before 😃 ) but it could well be later as many makers continued to use old marks long after they had ceased to be accurate. In the absence of a makers name or a patented design you will probably have to rely on dating the desk by it’s design and style & manner of construction.

Russell Stoner

Hi there.
Can you post an image of your furniture & any on your lock.

During 1870-1932, my Company, Withy Grove, used to supply a vast range of Scottish made Oak furniture, roll top desks, cabinets & lots inbetween.
I may be able to id, 1, the make of furniture, 2, the lock. Although many of the generic locks were Willinhall made, there were several makers of cabinet locks in the west midlands area.

We are celebrating 159 years this year (est 1850) as WG, although we do go back to 1723 under a differing name. I do keep quite a bit of old literature, books & so on to hand

Regards
Russell (Withy Grove (Leeds) t: 0113 2721441