Important Thomas Robinson, Wilmington Delaware late Chippendale mahogany desk and bookcase, 1798, retaining its original bill of sale from cabinetmaker Joseph Newlin, the upper section with a molded cornice over two fan inlaid doors and candleslides flanked by fluted quarter columns, resting on a lower section with a fall front and four graduated drawers supported by ogee bracket feet, 82 1/4" h., 41" w. Only three pieces by Newlin are presently known, The first is a walnut desk and bookcase in the permanent collection of The Historical Society of Delaware, the second, a chest of drawers in private hands, and the present example. Provenance: Thomas Robinson, Wilmington, Delaware, 1759-1809; William Robinson, 1792-1859; Thomas Springer Robinson, 1846-1913; William James Robinson, 1889-1973; Elizabeth Robinson Witsil, 1918-2009 to the present owner. Parts: information and original bill of sale. One return molding at cornice replaced. Small repairs to cornice at front corners. Brasses replaced. 3" x 2" patch to lower drawer.