Massachusetts Queen Anne inlaid block front desk, likely Boston, walnut primary, red cedar (by microanalysis) secondary. Molded slant lid having 8 1/2" ebonized and natural wood inlay in the form of a mariner's or compass star at center, triple line inlaid edges and cleated ends. Opens to reveal a well-fitted blocked and stepped interior with central arch paneled prospect door flanked by split baluster turnings fronting vertical document drawers, with cubby holes and drawers on either side, all embellished with triple line inlay. Sliding board conceals deep storage compartment under the writing surface. Front of desk has three blocked drawers embellished with triple line inlay and Queen Anne engraved brass pulls and escutcheons, resting on bracket feet. Deep drawer dividers. Plain sides and plain, horizontal nailed back. 39 1/8" H x 37 3/4" W x 23 1/2" D. Circa 1730-1740. Provenance: the collection of Mr. and Mrs. H.R. Slaymaker, Nashville, Tennessee; purchased from Ronald W. Christman, Antiques at Welsh Farm, Wales, Wisconsin, in 1993; purchased from Dudley J. Godfrey, Jr., Milwaukee, Wisconsin; purchased from Philip Budrose, Marblehead, Massachusetts. Accompanied by sales receipt from Ronald Christman and 1995 letter from Dudley Godfrey stating he purchased the desk from Budrose, who "sold to the big dealers meaning Israel Sack and John Walton," and mentioning he had some restoration work done on the desk (particularly the line inlay) by a staff member of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. CONDITION: Older refinish. Restoration to inlay. Horizontal crack to fall front board, approx. 18" L. Feet have been tipped. Patches to lid. 6î section of backboard replaced, scattered minor losses and restoration to inlay, scattered wear and abrasions.