Original caption
This beautiful American Empire butler’s desk dates to the first half of the 19th century. At first glance, it appears to be a traditional chest of drawers, but the upper front folds down to create a writing surface and reveal an incredible fitted interior with small drawers, pigeonholes, storage compartments, and decorative inlay. A beautiful example of early American furniture designed to be both functional and incredibly clever. #History #furniture #fyp #antique