English Walnut Letter Compendium

Lot Details & Additional Photographs

Late 19th century, slant from form with two hinged doors with inlaid brass shield key escutcheon, hinged upper panel, opening to tiered and divided letter storage, single drawer underneath, flush molded base, interior retains an inkwell with patinated and gilt cap marked PARKINS & GOTTO LONDON, and a pen tray.

9 1/2 x 12 1/2 x 7 1/2 in.

Private Collection, Charlottesville, Virginia

Parkins and Gotto was a Victorian firm specializing in stationary and decorative goods. Founded by William Parkins and Henry Jenkin Gotto as stationers in London around 1845, they were listed at 2 Hanway Street and 25 Oxford Street among other premises as the company expanded to selling writing cases, dressing cases and tea caddies to luggage, library tables, prayer books, sporting goods and toys. In 1860 the Society of Arts awarded them a silver medal for a writing case that combined usefulness, strength and affordability.

Good condition; some minor light scratches;