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Gavels 'n' Paddles: Kentucky Chippendale desk, $498,750, Cowan’s Auctions

Gavels 'n' Paddles: Kentucky Chippendale desk, $498,750, Cowan’s Auctions

Results of Recent Auctions From Near and Far
by Ken Hall
The Chippendale desk (and bookcase) of Capt. John Cowan (1748-1823), one of the first settlers in Kentucky in 1773, sold for $498,750 at a Fall Fine & Decorative Art Auction held Oct. 20-21 by Cowan’s Auctions in Cincinnati, Ohio. It was a new record price for furniture made in Kentucky and the second most expensive piece of Southern furniture ever sold at auction. The desk is clearly dated 1796 on the prospect door. It stands over 8 ½ feet tall and is made entirely of walnut. The price includes the buyer’s premium.

Gavels ‘n’ Paddles: Kentucky Chippendale desk, $498,750, Cowan’s Auctions