Sophie’s Desk Auction in Aid of Yes to Life

Sophie Sabbage’s husband John has generously donated Sophie’s writing desk to Yes to Life as a fundraiser for the charity. Quite apart from being a magnificent piece of furniture, it has a story behind it – this is the desk where Sophie wrote her groundbreaking best-sellers ‘The Cancer Whisperer’ and ‘Lifeshocks’, a desk she loved and that John bought as a present for her 50th birthday.

The Desk

The following description is taken from the Indian manufacturers:

Black Mother of Pearl Inlay Desk

Dimensions: 65 x 146 x 85 cm

“Constructed only from the finest quality materials, this dramatic black mother of pearl inlay desk is a magnificent example of true Indian workmanship. This exquisite mosaic desk is inlaid with authentic mother of pearl that provides a glittering contrast to the night black of the wood.

Hand crafted by our artisan woodworkers in the Rajasthan region of Northern India, this mosaic desk is a perfect complement to any home decor and is sure to be loved for generations to come.

This luxurious, black flower-patterned desk comes with five solid drawers, allowing you to have plenty of room to store your items. Crafted in line with the same techniques used to make the exquisite furniture that line the halls of the opulent Maharaja palaces, countless hand-chosen and polished pieces of mother of pearl were carved and then delicately pressed onto the wood in a traditional Rangoli pattern, making this an exemplary masterpiece that will add a sophisticated flair to any room.”

Condition

The desk is generally in good condition, although it does have a few missing pieces of inlay (detailed photographs can be supplied on request). These could be easily replaced by a restorer, but this doesn’t detract in any way from the impact of the desk, and could be seen simply as natural wear and tear, the patina of furniture with a history.

Collection

The desk is located near Dorking in Surrey. The winning bidder will need to make arrangements for collection at their cost.

The Auction

Sophie’s desk is being sold in a silent auction. It originally cost over £1500, so we are hoping that this uniquely significant piece of furniture will attract some generous bids that will provide the charity with significant benefit.

Closing date for bids will be the 1st October, exactly two years since Sophie passed away. We will announce the winner on 6th October.

Thank you for supporting this fundraiser and the best of luck with your bid!

Find out more and place your bid here