WB464: Writing slope veneered in saw cut coromandel inlaid with engraved mother of pearl and abalone by Mapin of London and Sheffield. Circa 1845. This is a stunning slope, the dark wood with waves of golden figuring, decorated with floral designs in mother of pearl and abalone shell. The shells are selected so that their colour and iridescence contribute to the artistic appeal of the whole. The white flowers surrounded by green stems and leaves. The petals and leaves are further defined by engraved lines. Unlike the earlier neoclassical designs, the flowers are recognisable, although there is an eccentric note in a bud within a flower in the central bouquet; a quirky note in a naturalistic design. The interior continues the high quality with abalone lines giving an iridescent outline to the coromandel outline and lids. There are two original silver plated inkwells. The writing surface is covered in a replacement gold embossed leather. Under the flap there is highly iridescent satinwood. Unusually for a slope there are also secret drawers in coromandel and satinwood. Working lock and key.