Lap desk
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The lap desk is both an antique and modern form.
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[edit] Antique lap desk
As an antique the lap desk is a smaller variant of the writing slope. It is also called a writing box or a writing cabinet. In certain instances it is known as a portable desk, a term which is usually applied to larger forms. Most antique lap desks are really meant to be used on a table or some other stable surface. They are often strongly built of fine hardwoods like mahogany or walnut.
They were, in effect, the fore-times equivalent of a PDA -- that is, they supplied, to the traveller, many of the conveniences of carrying round an entire escritoire. From them has come the concept of the briefcase not just as a carrier for papers, but as a portable writing place, and thus the laptop computer.
[edit] Modern lap desk
As a modern form the lap desk is meant primarily for use in bed and other similar circumstances. It is also known as a bed desk. There is a wide variety of forms available, but as a rule it is much smaller and simpler than the antique lap desk, having at the most a small drawer or holding area for a ballpoint pen and a pencil. It is also made of much cheaper materials, save for a few craft productions.
Certain lap desks have a removable monopod, which makes them collapsible cousins to the lectern desk. Others have two short collapsible legs, so that they can be used both in bed and on a lap, when the legs are folded. Finally, some come with a built-in battery powered lamp, continuing the tradition of those antique lap desks and writing slopes which had swinging or hinged brass candle holders built in. Some new lap desks now have a built-in cup holder.
Most modern lap desks are considered specialty items and very few furniture dealers keep them in stock. They are present, however, in a large number of catalogues and on some commercial Web sites.
See also the list of desk forms and types.
[edit] References
- Charron, Andy. Desks: Outstanding Projects from America's Best Craftsmen. Taunton press, 2000. pp. 20-33.
- Considine, Brian. Shaker Lap Desk: A challenging exercise in hand dovetailing. Fine Woodworking. No. 2. Spring 1976 pp. 48-49.
- Mehler, Kelly. Walnut Lap Desk: Cutting corners with finger joints. Fine Woodworking. No. 69. spring 1976. March-April 1988. pp. 54-57.
- Schleining, Lon. Thomas Jefferson's Writing Desk. Fine Woodworking. No. 144. September-October 2000. pp. 64-71.
- Lorr, Maureen. Lap Desk Patent D526810 Prime Source Accessories Ltd. (Room It Up) Aug 22, 2006
