I bought this desk last weekend. I don’t have much information on it, but here are several photos that might give someone enough to identify the style, period, wood, etc. I talked to David Cox and Dick Davis at Dave’s antique shop downtown and got some possible info.
Click on any photo and if you click on “all sizes”, you’ll get a much closer view.
– The hardware is NOT brass.
– The wood is probably mahogany.
– It may have been built in the early 1900’s.
– It looks like it is Governor Winthrop style.
– It is signed on a piece of paper on the back.
I’d love to find out more about this and how to proceed with the refinishing. Most of it is down to the bare wood, but there has been some repair done with filler near the top and the cubbies inside need to be sanded. I’d like to do this myself, but I’m not sure how. Anyone have any suggestions? Thanks in advance! —–Sharon
Good Morning Gloucester 
I refinished a desk that looks identical to that about 20 years ago. It was a reproduction in cherry and I just rubbed multiple layers of tung oil into it until it formed a soft, lustrous sheen. My sister still has it.
On the shot showing the compartments inside, do the little finules on either side of the center compartment slide out to reveal “secret compartments”?
LikeLike
Yes, they do. Kathleen, how do I get the old finish off the compartments? Sanding? And the filler is raised on the front. Do I sand that down to be flush with the surface of the desk? Thanks!
LikeLike
I’d use a finish remover. You just paint it on and let it sit for a bit and then wipe it off. There used to be one called Sexton that was very good.
Sand down the filler and replace any that has crumbled away.
LikeLike
We have a desk identical to that also! My kids love the secret compartments.
LikeLike
Hi Sharon,
What a pretty little desk – where repairs were previously done, it’s lost any “antique” value, so get some extra fine sandpaper and gently do the sanding. I use a Formsby’s stain, but I’d call or stop by a few of the Essex antique shops and see what they suggest – also go on line.
Good luck, and remember to use a light hand.
LikeLike
Thanks, everyone! I’ll keep you posted on my progress.
LikeLike
Hi Sharon!
I have a desk like that! I love it. I was told that it was a Governor Winthrop desk. It has a dark finish. The one that I have originally had a china cupboard on the top. We removed it and there are several screw holes where it was attached. I wonder if that is perhaps what you are seeing on the top.
All the best..
Rufus
LikeLike
You will love your new desk. I have seen them in both mahogany and cherry. If you are looking for some fine brass hardware, there is an antique hardware store on Charles Street in Boston which will really give it the antique look you want. Good luck.
LikeLike
Is the desk worth anything in it orginal state??
LikeLike