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What’s the difference between a bureau and a dresser?
1 Answer
The difference between a bureau and a dresser has to do with their location and function: The type of bureau that we associate with getting dressed in the morning is little more than a dresser with a mirror on top. This type of storage furniture is essentially a cabinet with a stack of horizontal drawers. Typically, a bureau-dressing table is waist-high and placed in the bedroom. A dresser is a short case piece with drawers that is also typically located in the bedroom.
A bureau can also refer to a secretaire, a furnishing with a writing surface. This kind of bureau features a desk with drawers. Much like a traditional secretary but without the upper half, the slant-top desk, also known as a slant-front or bureau desk, originated in the 18th century.
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A bureau can also refer to a secretaire, a furnishing with a writing surface. This kind of bureau features a desk with drawers. Much like a traditional secretary but without the upper half, the slant-top desk, also known as a slant-front or bureau desk, originated in the 18th century.
Find vintage and antique dressers for sale on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 1, 2024
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NYNY Drawers by Gebrüder Thonet Vienna GmbH (GTV) – Wiener GTV Design
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Part of a series that includes a vertical cabinet and a sideboard, this drawer, embodies the harmonious and elegant encounter between architecture, design, art, and craftsmanship. De...
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Expertly Restored - Mid-Century Californian Modern Sculpted Walnut Dresser
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precision. With over 17 years of artisanal exper...
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Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
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Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Walnut Dresser by Harmony House
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished
With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage desig...
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Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
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IKEA ‘MTP’ Wardrobe by Marian Grabinski for IKEA, 1963, Natural Oak
By IKEA
Located in Beerse, VAN
Beautiful IKEA wardrobe that was designed as a wedding gift for Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA.
The wardrobe is made of natural oak veneer with all edges in full oak, which lim...
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Dressers
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Late 18th Century French Louis XVI Period Walnut Semainier Chest, Bronze Details
Located in Fayetteville, AR
This late eighteenth century Louis XVI period chest of drawers is called a semainier in French due to its seven drawers. Semainier comes from the French word "semaine" which means we...
Category
Antique Late 18th Century French Louis XVI Dressers
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Bronze
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Walnut Highboy Dresser by Harmony House
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished
With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage desig...
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Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
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