In the collection ofArt Institute of Chicago
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Desk · Boston
Desk and Bookcase
Artist unknown (American, 18th century) · Boston · 1700–35
Pieces such as this desk and bookcase were multifunctional practical storage units used in the management of business and personal affairs. Most of the compartments on this desk have locks in order to safeguard the household possessions. The larger drawers of the desk held expensive linens and other textiles, while the small drawers on the interior of the desk section held everything from one's personal papers, money, and jewelry to shoe buckles and snuff boxes. In a time when the modern idea of banks did not exist, a locking desk was the safest place for one's valuables.
— Art Institute of Chicago, catalogue text
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