Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What's the difference between a desk and a writing table?
1 Answer
Desks typically include drawers or storage compartments, while writing tables (and secretary desks) offer a flatter surface with little to no built-in storage.
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
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Shop for Desks and Writing Tables on 1stDibs
Italian Mid-Century Modern 1950s Sculptural Writing Desk in Mahogany
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Writing desk, mahogany, glass, Italy, 1950s
This exceptional Italian desk from the 1950s embodies the sophistication and expressive freedom that defined the finest mid-century desig...
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Glass, Mahogany
Large Bespoke Study Desk with Linoleum Top and Drawer, Customizable
By &New
Located in Leicester, GB
This large beetroot color study desk is made with a powder coated steel frame and a beautiful natural linoleum top made out of linseed oil. This modern minimal desk has two steel dra...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary British Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Steel
Architects Drawing Board By Othello Circa 1930s
Located in Gloucester, GB
Architects Drawing Board By Othello Circa 1930s
- Articulated cast iron base
- Height adjustable and pivotable
- Pine board
- Made by Hermann Schäufele, Stuttgart
- German ~ 1930s
...
Category
Vintage 1930s German Industrial Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Cast Iron
Antique Early 19th C. Regency Flame Mahogany Lyre Base Drop Leaf Sofa Table Desk
Located in Dayton, OH
This exceptional antique English Regency drop-leaf sofa table, writing desk or library table showcases premium early 19th-century cabinetmaking craftsmanship and elegant neoclassical...
Category
Antique 19th Century Regency Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Brass
$2,800 Sale Price
30% Off
French 19th Century Louis XIII Bleached Solid Oak Desk
Located in Carmine, TX
French 19th Century Louis XIII Bleached Solid Oak Desk — Impressive carved solid oak writing desk featuring elaborate floral and foliate decoration, barley-twist legs, stretcher base...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Louis XIII Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Oak
Stylish Art Deco Modernist D End Two Sided Desk, English, circa 1930
Located in Devon, England
For your consideration is this lovely and totally original light to mid tone oak Art Deco desk dating to the 1930s with a modernist feel. Compact in size this desk is perfect if the ...
Category
Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Chrome
