Auction No. 645

A Horner-Attributed Winged-Griffin Library Desk

Oak library desk attributed to R. J. Horner with full-standing winged griffins
Oak library desk attributed to R. J. Horner with full-standing winged griffins

Hal Hunt Auctions has an oak library desk listed as attributed to R. J. Horner in its June 27 Estates Sale. The estimate is $3,000–$6,000, and the listing describes a carved top with full-standing winged griffins. You can see it here.

This is one of those Horner-type pieces where the carving is the whole reason to stop. The desk is not huge — the listed size is 31 inches high, 56 inches wide, and 37 inches deep — but the griffins give it the same architectural feeling that makes the better Renaissance Revival pieces feel more like furniture sculpture than office equipment.

I would still keep the attribution qualifier in place unless the construction, carving, and underside details confirm it in person. But as a study piece, it belongs in the Horner folder. Full-standing griffins are a useful visual cue, and this one is a good reminder that the market still responds when the form, carving, and maker name all line up.

Find R. J. Horner griffin desks on eBay →

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