Looking at it again, I believe the brass rods must fold to form a support leg when the front is lowered (hinged along the bottom). So, I'd now guess it is a portfolio or map table. What do you think?gramophoneshane wrote:Good question. At first glance I thought it was a fancy coal skuttle, but I don't think it is now I look at it closely.JohnM wrote: What is the easel-like piece of furniture in the sixth photo?
John M
Are they musical instruments carved on the door panel?
That would indicate a music cabinet of some sort, but it would be the strangest design if it is. The brass bar mounted down one side is a mystery to me too.
It does look like some sort of easel with a different style smokers cabinet or similar mounted on it.
I've never seen anything quite like it.
I can tell you that the rope-like wooden lattice elements are typical of Merklen Brothers furniture n made in New York City circa 1890.
Hey! Maybe it is a fancy Murphy bed for Edison's famous spontaneous ten-minute cat-naps! LOL!
John M