WB Yeats' writing bureau smashes estimate at Sotheby's

WB Yeats' writing bureau was among the top lots in yesterday's Sotheby's sale dedicated to the Anglo-Irish poet (1865-1939).

Yeats writing desk

Did Yeats write a famous poem at this desk?

The 18th century oak and mahogany piece, which contains four secret compartments, sold for £187,500 ($251,000) in London - demolishing its £30,000 ($40,000) valuation.

Bidders clearly relished the thought of the Long-Legged Fly author penning letters and maybe even a poem or two while sat at the desk.

Yeats' chair achieved £32,500 ($43,000).

The top lot of the sale, consigned by the poet's grandchildren, was brother Jack B Yeats' oil artwork The Sunset Belongs to You. It sold for £212,500 ($285,000).

WB Yeats

Brother Jack's oil was the top lot

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