You've laboured (either lovingly or reluctantly) over his serialized novels, you've likely quaffed in some of his favourite pubs, and now, you can sit at his desk. And by "you" we mean those rabid Dickens fans that can spare around £100,000.
Charles Dickens's writing desk and chair are to be auctioned off at Christie's in June. All proceeds will go to Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital, of which Dickens was a serious patron and supporter and whose founder, Charles West, was a close friend. The night before he suffered from a fatal stroke in 1870, Dickens's oldest daughter Mamie recalls him writing at this very desk, which also witnessed the penning of Pip, Miss Havisham & co. of Great Expectations.
The mid-19th century walnut and mahogany furniture had been on display at 48 Doughty Street in the Dickens Museum in London, the only surviving home of Dickens in town, for over 40 years. During his residence here, he wrote and published the Pickwick Papers and Oliver Twist. If you're interested in Dickens but can't necessarily pony up 80 G for his home furnishings, head here to find out about Dickensian-themed walks and spots of interest in London.
By Kira Hesser
Image of Dickens head courtesy of vapnet's Flickrstream.
