What is a writing desk?

A writing desk may refer to a desk with a top, often sloping, for writing on or to a portable case with compartments to hold writing materials and a surface for writing.

What is a small writing desk called?

A small writing table is also called a davenport table or davenport desk. They normally feature a sloped or inclined top attached with hinges to the back of the table. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage davenport desks.

What is a writing desk with drawers called?

A writing desk with drawers is also called a secretary. It is a desk with drawers, one of which can be pushed out and the front of the desk lowered to create a flat writing surface. These writing desks have been made in a variety of styles over the years. Shop for a variety of writing tables with drawers on 1stDibs.

What is an old-fashioned writing desk called?

What an old-fashioned writing desk is called varies by design. Pieces with drop-down fronts are secretary desks (these are typically made of two parts: a chest of drawers on the bottom and a hutch or cupboard with shelves on the top), while ones that rest on two pillars, cabinets or bookcases are pedestal desks. A desk with a small writing surface positioned in front of drawers and cubbies is a bureau à gradin. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of desks.

What was the term in French furniture for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface?

In French, the term for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface is secretaire. This type of desk is called a secretary desk in English. Simply put, a secretary desk is a multifunctional piece of furniture with a hinged writing surface that folds open or drops down. When the leaf is folded out, small inner storage compartments, which are called pigeonholes, cubbies, recesses or drawers, are revealed. On 1stDibs, shop antique secretary desks from some of the world's top sellers.

Lucite Writing Desk

Floating Desk

Mid Century Desk Legs

Poul Norreklit Desk

Glass And Lucite Vintage Side Tables

Vladimir Kagan Lucite

1970s Executive Desk

Art Deco Lucite Tables

Floating Wood Table

Lucite Base Faux Snake Skin Sculptural Shape One-Drawer Writing Table Desk

$8,000

H 29 in W 24 in D 46 in

Lucite Base Faux Snake Skin Sculptural Shape One-Drawer Writing Table Desk

By Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc.

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Mid-Century Modern sculptural futuristic shape desk writing table with one drawer. Kagan Space Age attribution influence.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Faux Leather, Lucite

Chic Vintage Curved Lucite Desk

$4,800

H 30 in W 52 in D 30 in

Chic Vintage Curved Lucite Desk

Located in North Miami, FL

This sexy and unique curved Lucite desk with a lower tier for storage. Chrome stretcher to base provides additional stability and heft. THIS ITEM IS LOCATED AND WILL SHIP FROM OUR M...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

1970s Monumental Executive Floating Lucite and Wood Desk

$11,500

H 34 in W 74 in D 25 in

1970s Monumental Executive Floating Lucite and Wood Desk

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning lucite desk you could hope to find. This is an ultra-rare opportunity to acquire what is, unequivocally, the best of the best, i...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Wood

1970s Rare Royal Blue Floating Lucite Executive Desk

$8,950

H 30 in W 61 in D 24 in

1970s Rare Royal Blue Floating Lucite Executive Desk

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning, Lucite wood desk you could hope to find. This is an ultra-rare opportunity to acquire what is, unequivocally, the best of the ...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Wood, Laminate

Lucite "Iceberg" Desk, in the Lion in Frost Style

$3,278

H 30 in W 72 in D 42 in

Lucite "Iceberg" Desk, in the Lion in Frost Style

By Lion in Frost

Located in Miami, FL

Impressive and huge desk, composed by two Lucite bases iceberg look and a beveled glass top. In the style of Lion in Frost.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Lucite

Hollywood Regency Lucite and Glass Desk Circa 1930's

$1,850

H 30 in W 51 in D 27.5 in

Hollywood Regency Lucite and Glass Desk Circa 1930's

Located in Norwalk, CT

This elegant coffee table brings one back to the golden era of Hollywood style in the early 20th century. Crafted from beautifully crafted lucite, this glass top table exudes class a...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Vintage Karl Springer Console Table, Desk With Lucite, Gold Plated Brass & Glass

$11,405

H 31 in W 34 in D 28.5 in

Vintage Karl Springer Console Table, Desk With Lucite, Gold Plated Brass & Glass

By Karl Springer

Located in North Miami, FL

This elegant vintage Karl Springer console table, writing desk, entry table or dining table has 4 arched lucite columns that rest on a 22 carat gold plated over brass angled plinth p...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Gold, Brass

Poul Nørreklit Danish Wenge Wood Desk and Matching Lucite Chair, c.1970

$12,535

H 29.73 in W 56.7 in D 29.93 in

Poul Nørreklit Danish Wenge Wood Desk and Matching Lucite Chair, c.1970

By Poul Nørreklit

Located in Dublin, IE

Details Sculptural Desk and Matching Chair by Poul Nørreklit Wenge wood and lucite Denmark, circa 1970 Desk Height 75.5 cm (29.7 in) Width 144 cm (56.7 in) Depth 76 cm (29.9 in)...

Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Hardwood, Wenge

Mid-Century Modern Lucite Desk with Beveled Top and Butterfly Base

$3,200

H 29 in W 38 in D 18 in

Mid-Century Modern Lucite Desk with Beveled Top and Butterfly Base

Located in Delray Beach, FL

Beautiful Lucite rectangular desk beveled top with butterfly base. One front draw can be used as a desk or decorative console table. In good vintage condition with minimal wear.

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Custom Floating Two Drawer Desk, Lucite, Steel, Glass White Lacquer Wood 1970'S

$15,900

H 28.5 in W 56 in D 24 in

Custom Floating Two Drawer Desk, Lucite, Steel, Glass White Lacquer Wood 1970'S

Located in North Miami, FL

This vintage custom made sensational floating desk with 2 drawers has a recessed glass top that floats on steel pegs around the entire desk; the 2 part lucite sides come together wit...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

1970's Vintage Custom Floating Desk In Lucite, Glass, Steel And White Lacquer

$15,900

H 28.5 in W 56 in D 24 in

1970's Vintage Custom Floating Desk In Lucite, Glass, Steel And White Lacquer

By Karl Springer

Located in North Miami, FL

This amazing vintage custom made sensational floating desk with 2 white lacquered drawers with chrome round pulls has a recessed glass top that floats on steel pegs around the entire...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

Baker Bleached Walnut Lucite & Brass Pulls 4 Drawer Low Profile Desk Console

$8,500

H 29 in W 60 in D 24 in

Baker Bleached Walnut Lucite & Brass Pulls 4 Drawer Low Profile Desk Console

By Tommi Parzinger, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Baker Bleached Walnut Lucite & Brass Pulls 4 drawer low profile desk console writing table.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

20th Century Italian Modernist Writing Table

$4,035

H 28.75 in W 47.25 in D 23.63 in

20th Century Italian Modernist Writing Table

Located in Gloucestershire, GB

20th Century Italian writing table of simple Modernist form. With a tortoiseshell lucite drawer and trim and smoked glass top.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Alexandra Von Furstenberg Blacksmith Acrylic Desk Sawhorse Table

$3,750Sale Price|50% Off

H 29 in W 84 in D 38 in

Alexandra Von Furstenberg Blacksmith Acrylic Desk Sawhorse Table

By Alexandra Von Furstenberg

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Dramatic opaque black acrylic sawhorse blacksmith desk or writing table designed by Alexandra Von Furstenberg. The bold desk features two A framed acrylic saw horse style supports to...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Acrylic, Lucite

Vladimir Kagan Kidney Desk with Credenza in Tawi Wood

$48,500

H 29.75 in W 96 in D 87 in

Vladimir Kagan Kidney Desk with Credenza in Tawi Wood

By Vladimir Kagan

Located in Dallas, TX

This is truly an exceptional desk designed and manufactured by Vladimir Kagan. The desk features a kidney shaped work area supported on a thick Lucite base and a matching credenza al...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Oversize Large Important Vladimir Kagan Art Deco Executive Desk

$55,000

H 29 in W 91 in D 36 in

Oversize Large Important Vladimir Kagan Art Deco Executive Desk

By Vladimir Kagan

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Unusual rare Vladimir Kagan Art Deco style executive desk. Desk is equipped with space lights projecting light through elaborate pair of lucite shades that are also part of the desk ...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Lucite, Hardwood

Magnificent Peter Protzman Zebra Wood Chrome Desk Mid Century Modern

$8,400Sale Price|20% Off

H 30.5 in W 65 in D 33 in

Magnificent Peter Protzman Zebra Wood Chrome Desk Mid Century Modern

By Peter Protzmann

Located in Pemberton, NJ

This iconic desk, designed by Peter Protzman for Herman Miller, was only manufactured for two years from 1970-1971. Making it a rare, limited production item. The smooth, curved edge...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Magnificent Rare Kidney Shaped Vladimir Kagan Burl Desk Credenza Mid-Century

$36,000Sale Price|20% Off

H 29.5 in W 98 in D 40 in

Magnificent Rare Kidney Shaped Vladimir Kagan Burl Desk Credenza Mid-Century

By Vladimir Kagan

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Magnificent Vladimir Kagan Burl and Lucite kidney shaped desk credenza. Very few of these unusual desk/ credenzas were ever made and all were custom made for private collectors. This...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Burl

Limited Edition Desk by Charles Hollis Jones, Signed, Dated and Numbered

$45,000

H 29 in W 54 in D 26 in

Limited Edition Desk by Charles Hollis Jones, Signed, Dated and Numbered

By Charles Hollis Jones

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This desk is in stock and ready to ship. Signed, dated and numbered 2/11. Beautiful desk in Lucite and solid brass with a bronze finish designed and manufactured by Charles Hol...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writ...

Materials

Brass

Alessandro Albrizzi Table

$5,500

H 31 in W 50 in D 26 in

Alessandro Albrizzi Table

By Alessandro Albrizzi

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Alessandro Albrizzi Table ,Used as the Reception Desk at "Martha's" on Worth Ave. in Palm Beach Perspex ,Glass and Steel

Category

Vintage 1970s English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Glass

French Art Deco Bakelite / Catalin Desk Writing Set in Box, France c.1930

$455

H 0.99 in W 8.12 in D 3.27 in

French Art Deco Bakelite / Catalin Desk Writing Set in Box, France c.1930

Located in Bad Säckingen, DE

Elegant Art Deco desk writing accessory set from France, dating to the 1930s. The set consists of five coordinated pieces crafted from richly marbled Bakelite in warm amber, caramel,...

Category

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Desk Sets

Materials

Metal

Custom Two Drawer Lacquered Writing Table

$14,940 / item

H 30 in W 42 in D 18 in

Custom Two Drawer Lacquered Writing Table

By Venfield

Located in New York, NY

Petite custom, made-to-order, two-drawer lacquered writing table with Lucite and chrome handles. Designed and made by Venfield. Currently out of stock but available for custom orde...

Category

2010s American Modern Desks

Materials

Chrome

Superb Bookmatch Olivewood Console, Game Table and Writing Desk, circa 1975

$18,500

H 29.5 in W 46.5 in D 23 in

Superb Bookmatch Olivewood Console, Game Table and Writing Desk, circa 1975

Located in Atlanta, GA

A fabulous restored multi-use table which may serve as a stunning console, writing desk and game table, circa 1975. Expertly crafted hardwood construction veneered in bookmatched Oli...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Materials

Lucite, Olive

Recent Sales

Burl Wood and Lucite Writing Desk

Unavailable

H 29.5 in W 51 in D 19 in

Burl Wood and Lucite Writing Desk

Located in Los Angeles, CA

W51 D19 H29.5 KW21.5 KC23.5 KD18 Vintage Fully Restored Desk with a Medium Walnut Finish. Item is structurally sound and fully functional. Desk features very unique hardware and bur...

Category

Vintage 1940s Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Burl

Walnut and Lucite Desk

Unavailable

H 30 in W 77 in D 37.5 in

Walnut and Lucite Desk

Located in Nashville, TN

Iconic and stunning walnut and lucite desk restored to original condition.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut, Lucite

Crenelle Lucite Desk by Craig Van Den Brulle

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Crenelle Lucite Desk by Craig Van Den Brulle

By Craig Van Den Brulle

Located in New York, NY

Crenelle Lucite desk by Craig Van Den Brulle. Custom Sizes Are Available.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Mid-Century Style Burl Wood Desk with Lucite Legs and Brass & Lucite Pulls

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Mid-Century Style Burl Wood Desk with Lucite Legs and Brass & Lucite Pulls

By Modshop

Located in Compton, CA

This desk showcases the true beauty of burl wood. From top to sides, and to the front drawers of the desk. This desk will then be the highlight of any office or room. The desk has ou...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writi...

Materials

Lucite, Burl

Contemporary Toba Desk Solid wood top clear Lucite legs

Unavailable

H 29.5 in W 30 in D 72 in

Contemporary Toba Desk Solid wood top clear Lucite legs

By Baker Hesseldenz Studio

Located in Tucson, AZ

The Toba desk with its gracefully arced top, takes its inspiration from the iconic upsweeping roof ridges of the Toba Batak houses of Indonesia. Solid wood top with clear lucite base...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Wood

Incredible Lucite Desk with Riverstone Top

Unavailable

H 30 in W 54 in D 36 in

Incredible Lucite Desk with Riverstone Top

Located in Houston, TX

Rare custom Lucite desk with Riverstone resin desk top, with custom Lucite pencil draw, The Riverstone top is a beautiful addition to the Lucite base that gives it a floating illusio...

Category

Late 20th Century Post-Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Acrylic

Lucite "Iceberg" Desk, in the Lion in Frost Style

Unavailable

H 30 in W 72 in D 42 in L 30 in

Lucite "Iceberg" Desk, in the Lion in Frost Style

By Lion in Frost

Located in Miami, FL

Impressive and huge desk, composed by two Lucite bases iceberg look and a beveled glass top. In the style of Lion in Frost.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Lucite

Karl Springer Desk with Embossed Leather Top and Lucite Legs

Unavailable

H 29.93 in W 76.38 in D 36.23 in

Karl Springer Desk with Embossed Leather Top and Lucite Legs

By Karl Springer

Located in Munich, Bavaria

Impressive desk by German designer Karl Springer. The desk features a lizard embossed black leather top, and imposing, massive Lucite legs.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Lucite

Modern Style Capri Desk in White with Black & Gold Detail and Lucite Legs

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Modern Style Capri Desk in White with Black & Gold Detail and Lucite Legs

By Modshop

Located in Compton, CA

Modshop Capri desk has gone glam. Not only does the Capri collection represent the best of the current Chevron trend inset in the beautifully crafted door fronts, but this one featur...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Modern Amalfi Two-Drawer Artisan Desk with Lucite & Brass Legs & Pulls in Walnut

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Modern Amalfi Two-Drawer Artisan Desk with Lucite & Brass Legs & Pulls in Walnut

By Modshop

Located in Compton, CA

Freshen up the patterns in your office with our gorgeous Amalfi Desk finished with a matte white case and Lucite knobs. The natural patterns of the walnut wood show in the beautifull...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writ...

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Style Hampton Desk with Lucite Legs and Pulls in Light Oak

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Mid-Century Modern Style Hampton Desk with Lucite Legs and Pulls in Light Oak

By Modshop

Located in Compton, CA

Introducing our Hampton desk in light oak with wax finish featuring our rose gold Lucite octagon pull knobs and Lucite plinth legs. An elegant and unique addition to any work space. ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writi...

Materials

Lucite, Oak

White Lacquered Desk with Lucite and Brass Geometric Legs

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

White Lacquered Desk with Lucite and Brass Geometric Legs

By Modshop

Located in Compton, CA

With a white gloss top sat above a geometric Lucite and brass legs, this impressive piece will inspire you to get your work done. Dimensions: 60" W x 30" D x 30" H Please i...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writi...

Materials

Copper

Elephant Tusk Desk

Unavailable

H 29.5 in W 67.5 in D 24.25 in

Elephant Tusk Desk

By Maitland Smith

Located in Palm Beach, FL

A wonderful brass and faux elephant tusks desk. With thick Lucite tabletop makes the tusks appear to float to either side, circa 1970s.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Hollywood Regency Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Poul Nørreklit for Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik selectform desk model 'GP 160'

Unavailable

H 29.14 in W 67.13 in D 31.3 in

Poul Nørreklit for Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik selectform desk model 'GP 160'

By Poul Nørreklit, Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik

Located in Tunbridge Wells, GB

A vintage mid-century desk designed by Poul Nørreklit for Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik. Original label is present The desk is part of the selectform range model 'GP 160'. The desk ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

White Desk with Walnut, Hickory and Oak Reclaimed Woods Accents Copper T-Legs

Unavailable

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

White Desk with Walnut, Hickory and Oak Reclaimed Woods Accents Copper T-Legs

By Modshop

Located in Compton, CA

Introducing our new Marbella desk featuring seven assorted wood fronts individually cut and hand placed. Woods include: white recycled, grey recycled, oiled walnut, bleached walnut, ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writi...

Materials

Copper, Brass

Abalone and Lucite Writing Desk

Sold

H 29.75 in W 48 in D 27 in

Abalone and Lucite Writing Desk

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Abalone and Lucite desk. Abalone table top with Lucite legs.

Category

20th Century Italian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Abalone, Lucite

Stunning Monumental Lucite X Frame Desk / Writing Table

Sold

H 29.75 in W 70 in D 40.5 in

Stunning Monumental Lucite X Frame Desk / Writing Table

Located in North Miami, FL

This glamorous translucent desk or writing table is fashioned in solid lucite with a thick solid lucite top which is uncustomary as most tables still use glass tops.

Category

20th Century American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Mid-Century Poul Nørreklit lucite & wengé writing desk, Denmark, 1970's.

Sold

H 29.53 in W 47.25 in D 33.47 in

Mid-Century Poul Nørreklit lucite & wengé writing desk, Denmark, 1970's.

By Poul Nørreklit

Located in CASTENRAY, NL

POUL NØRREKLIT (1913-2007) A desk, 1970s Lucite ad Wengé. The pictures do harm to the original piece as the reflection of the wood makes it 'cloudy' which the top is not. Previous...

Category

Vintage 1970s Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Lucite cantilevered desk

Sold

H 29 in W 48.75 in D 26 in

Lucite cantilevered desk

Located in New York, NY

Desk composed of a bent clear lucite panel over a faux wood grain lucite file cabinet.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

1970s Lucite Desk

Sold

H 30 in W 37.5 in D 18 in

1970s Lucite Desk

Located in New York, NY

1970s modern Lucite desk with a single drawer.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Lucite Writing/Console Table

Sold

H 30.75 in W 57 in D 36 in

Lucite Writing/Console Table

Located in Dallas, TX

Solid Lucite Table would serve as an over-sized console, a writing desk or even a small breakfast table.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Acrylic, Glass

Rare French Mid-Century Modern Lucite & Glass Writing Desk / Vanity by P. Vandel

Sold

H 29.75 in W 46.75 in D 24.25 in

Rare French Mid-Century Modern Lucite & Glass Writing Desk / Vanity by P. Vandel

By Pierre Vandel

Located in New York, NY

Elegant French Mid-Century Modern lucite and glass desk /writing table / vanity by Pierre Vandel.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Gary Gutterman Lucite Desk

Sold

H 30.5 in W 90 in D 39.5 in

Gary Gutterman Lucite Desk

By Gary Gutterman

Located in North Miami, FL

fabulous hollywood glam executive desk by Gary Gutterman. The base has a modern yet elegant look and is signed Gary Gutterman. The top was custom designed and fitted as a desk at a...

Category

20th Century Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Paint, Board

Ralph Lauren Style Black Lacquer and Lucite Executive Writing Table Desk

Sold

H 24 in W 63 in L 24 in

Ralph Lauren Style Black Lacquer and Lucite Executive Writing Table Desk

By Ralph Lauren

Located in Swedesboro, NJ

This is a fantastic custom made desk made to closely replicate a Ralph Lauren but with some slight differences. The desk has genuine silver leaf and Lucite hardware and smoothly open...

Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Silver Leaf

Black Bamboo and Lucite Desk

Sold

H 38 in W 44 in D 24 in

Black Bamboo and Lucite Desk

Located in Dallas, TX

This is a fabulous vintage bamboo desk that has been refinished in a black tone for the top of the desk and updated with solid Lucite legs. Diameter: 44" W x 24" D x 38" H.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Lucite

roll-top writing desk by Kagan

Sold

H 36 in W 43 in D 23 in

roll-top writing desk by Kagan

By Vladimir Kagan

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A roll-top writing desk in oak with lucite legs and leather writing surface.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood, Lucite, Leather

Lucite and Walnut Floating Desk

Sold

H 30.25 in W 48.75 in D 24.25 in

Lucite and Walnut Floating Desk

Located in Phoenix, AZ

Stunning walnut Lucite and acrylic floating desk or console table, circa mid-1960s. This architectural example has solid clear Lucite sides and cream acrylic drawer fronts and top th...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Walnut

Red Shagreen and Lucite Desk

Sold

H 30.5 in W 71.25 in L 30.5 in

Red Shagreen and Lucite Desk

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Red, with black edges shagreen desk. With Lucite legs and brass hardware.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Shagreen, Lucite

Rectangular desk with lucite base

Sold

H 28.75 in W 52 in D 33 in

Rectangular desk with lucite base

Located in New York, NY

Rectangular desk with lucite cross bar base, brass details, and glass top.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Magnificent Large Lucite Desk with Drawers

Sold

H 30 in W 48 in D 24 in

Magnificent Large Lucite Desk with Drawers

Located in New York, NY

Glamorous at its best, this solid and gleaming lucite desk is absolutely stunning. Made of thick, 2" lucite with two white acrylic drawers to hold and conceal all your belongings.

Category

20th Century American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Lucite Desk with Leather Drawers, 1960

Sold

H 30.5 in W 48 in L 30.5 in

Lucite Desk with Leather Drawers, 1960

By Charles Hollis Jones

Located in Chicago, IL

Lucite desk with leather drawers, 1960. Restored.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Lucite

Italian Midcentury Lucite and Leather Desk

Sold

H 28.5 in W 51.5 in D 27 in

Italian Midcentury Lucite and Leather Desk

By Fabio Lenci

Located in Hopewell, NJ

Very unusual stylish desk constructed of lucite and chrome, with a black leather wrapped surface. Two holes in the lucite for silver cups to hold pencils, etc. One is missing.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Midcentury Lucite and Aluminum Roll Top Desk

Sold

H 37 in W 34 in D 22 in

Midcentury Lucite and Aluminum Roll Top Desk

Located in West Hartford, CT

Midcentury aluminum roll top desk with a Lucite base. Writing area pulls out once top rolls open.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Rare Vladimir Kagan Walnut & Lucite Executive Desk

Sold

H 29.5 in W 78 in D 38 in

Rare Vladimir Kagan Walnut & Lucite Executive Desk

Located in Chicago, IL

Rare solid walnut with walnut veneer and lucite executive desk by Vladimir Kagan. This unique piece came from the executive office of a retired showroom owner at the Chicago Merchand...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

Fabulous Kagan Style White Lacquered and Lucite Desk with Original Lucite Pulls

Sold

H 29.5 in W 52 in D 25 in

Fabulous Kagan Style White Lacquered and Lucite Desk with Original Lucite Pulls

By Vladimir Kagan

Located in North Miami, FL

The rounded radius corners of this wonderful 2 part lucite desk floats... there is a top pencil/pen drawer, along with one pullout drawer and a file cabinet drawer... all freshly wh...

Category

Late 20th Century American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Contemporary Lucite and Inset Mirror Top Desk

Sold

H 30 in W 54 in D 17.75 in

Contemporary Lucite and Inset Mirror Top Desk

By Geoffrey Bradfield

Located in Queens, NY

Contemporary lucite desk with 3 inset antiqued mirror squares on the top surface, a shallow glass compartment/shelf, and geometric scroll-shaped legs. (designed by Geoffrey Bradfield...

Category

20th Century American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Mirror, Lucite

McGuire Bamboo and Lucite Desk & Chair, 1980

Sold

H 28.5 in W 54 in D 22.5 in

McGuire Bamboo and Lucite Desk & Chair, 1980

By McGuire

Located in Chicago, IL

McGuire Bamboo and Lucite Desk & Chair, 1980’s. Original. There is a small chip on the underside of glass. Desk Measures 28.5” tall 40.5” wide 22.5” deep, glass .5” thick 54” long ...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Glass, Lucite

Custom Lucite Desk or Vanity with Tortishell Lucite Drawer and Chair, 1970s

Sold

H 30 in W 43 in D 17 in

Custom Lucite Desk or Vanity with Tortishell Lucite Drawer and Chair, 1970s

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Custom Lucite desk/vanity with tortoise shell Lucite drawer and custom Lucite chair, American, 1970s. $5,500 for the desk/vanity $2,500 for the chair Desk/Vanity: W 43 inches...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

Vintage Lucite, Brass & Glass Desk / Dressing Table

Sold

H 34 in W 43 in D 22 in

Vintage Lucite, Brass & Glass Desk / Dressing Table

Located in London, GB

An absolutely stunning and unusual vintage desk, with a clear acrylic frame, brass trim and glass top. This was most likely made in France, it dates from the 1970’s. This is of ex...

Category

Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Lucite

LUCITE DESK WITH GLASS TOP

Sold

H 29.5 in W 66 in D 30 in

LUCITE DESK WITH GLASS TOP

Located in New York, NY

1970's american lucite desk with glass top

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Floating Curved Cerejeira Grain Desk with Lucite Legs

Sold

H 29.5 in W 79.5 in D 32 in

Floating Curved Cerejeira Grain Desk with Lucite Legs

Located in Los Angeles, CA

extraordinary curved cerejeira grain desk with one drawer and lucite legs, gives the illusion of floating. This remarkable desk features a beautifully curved cerejeira wood grain su...

Category

Early 2000s Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Acrylic, Lucite, Wood

Italian Lucite and Suede Desk

Sold

H 29 in W 39.5 in D 18 in

Italian Lucite and Suede Desk

Located in Norwalk, CT

Stylish and unusual small desk with heavy lucite sides, chrome details,delicately patterned suede fabric covering the top and drawers --with a protective glass top. Marked: Made in ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Desks and Writing Tables

Lucite and Brass Saw Horse Desk or Table

Sold

H 30 in W 54 in D 30 in

Lucite and Brass Saw Horse Desk or Table

Located in Danville, CA

Beautiful pair of thick Lucite Sawhorses with brass hardware and glass top. The base can accommodate a glass top up to 72 x 48 Keywords-Pace, Albrizzi, Hollis J...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Walnut and Lucite Executive Desk by Gianni, 1970s

Sold

H 30.5 in W 78 in D 38 in

Walnut and Lucite Executive Desk by Gianni, 1970s

Located in Dallas, TX

Discover a very rare, beautiful, and substantial desk. This mid-century gem features a stunning walnut top with elegant curved edges, free from harsh corners, and seemingly floats on...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Walnut

Burled Walnut and Lucite Desk Attributed to Leon Frost

Sold

H 30 in W 67.5 in D 30 in

Burled Walnut and Lucite Desk Attributed to Leon Frost

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A gorgeous burled walnut and Lucite desk attributed to Leon Frost (Lion in Frost). Note the dramatic design with the three legs made up of 5 pieces of thick Lucite held together. Two...

Category

American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Walnut

Danish Rosewood and Lucite Desk by Georg Petersen (Mobelfabrik)

Sold

H 30 in W 67 in D 32 in

Danish Rosewood and Lucite Desk by Georg Petersen (Mobelfabrik)

By Georg Petersens

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A vintage rosewood and Lucite desk designed by Georg Petersen and made by Mobelfabrik. Drawers are veneered in aluminum. Label inside one drawer - see photo.

Category

20th Century Danish Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Stunning Karl Springer Biomorphic Lucite And Glass Bar/Desk

Sold

H 30 in W 120 in D 48 in

Stunning Karl Springer Biomorphic Lucite And Glass Bar/Desk

Located in North Miami, FL

This incredible piece was probably a custom design of the time period. It features interconnected thick lucite bands that form an asymmetrical base. The piece is signed on the botto...

Category

20th Century American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Glass

Curved Lucite Writing Table Attributed to Karl Springer

Sold

H 28 in W 69 in D 24 in

Curved Lucite Writing Table Attributed to Karl Springer

Located in New York, NY

Exquisite Form and Transparent Materials Make this Lucite and Glass table.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass

Period Mid-Century Modern, Lucite and Glass Desk, French

Sold

H 29.25 in W 59 in D 27.5 in

Period Mid-Century Modern, Lucite and Glass Desk, French

Located in Austin, TX

Writing desk from the period mid-century in France.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Spectacular Lucite Desk, Lacquer & Burlwood .Signed

Sold

H 29 in W 52 in D 28 in

Spectacular Lucite Desk, Lacquer & Burlwood .Signed

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Incredible and substantial 1970's Lucite Desk
with lacquered burlwood !
Signed "Lion in Frost"

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lacquer, Burl

Fabio Lenci Lavander Lucite Desk & Chair

Sold

H 32 in W 52 in

Fabio Lenci Lavander Lucite Desk & Chair

Located in Miami, FL

Incredible desk and chair by Fabio Lenci. Frames are Chromed metal, both desk and chair have the original removable Lucite top and seat. Retains the 2 metal pencil tubs. You don't se...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Desks and Writing Tables

Python and Lucite Desk in the style of Karl Springer

Sold

H 29 in W 32 in D 20 in

Python and Lucite Desk in the style of Karl Springer

Located in New York, NY

1970's Python and Lucite Desk in the style of Karl Springer

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite

CUSTOM LUCITE DESK WITH RED LACQUER AND TAN SHAGREEN TOP

Sold

H 31.5 in W 72 in D 30 in

CUSTOM LUCITE DESK WITH RED LACQUER AND TAN SHAGREEN TOP

By Venfield

Located in New York, NY

CUSTOM LUCITE DESK WITH RED LACQUER AND TAN SHAGREEN TOP

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Shagreen, Lacquer, Wood

1970's Custom Design Lucite Writing Table with Marble Top

Sold

H 29 in W 60 in D 30 in

1970's Custom Design Lucite Writing Table with Marble Top

Located in Dallas, TX

Vintage lucite and rouge marble writing table. Solid base and removeable top. Beautiful veining to the marble in hues of rouge and creams.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Rare, Beautiful Lucite & Wenge Desk Attributed To Danish Designer Poul Nørreklit

Sold

H 29.73 in W 56.7 in D 29.93 in

Rare, Beautiful Lucite & Wenge Desk Attributed To Danish Designer Poul Nørreklit

By Poul Nørreklit

Located in Portlaoise, IE

The desk features a beautifully shaped, curved wenge top with pronounced grain and depth of colour, offering a strong visual presence while remaining elegant and refined. The surface...

Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Wenge

Custom Made "l" Shaped Lucite And Glass Desk By Karl Springer

Sold

H 30.25 in W 120 in D 48 in

Custom Made "l" Shaped Lucite And Glass Desk By Karl Springer

By Karl Springer

Located in New York, NY

Custom made "L" shaped lucite and glass desk by Karl Springer. Signed. View our complete collection at www.johnsalibello.com

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lucite, Glass

Lucite And Rosewood Desk By Poul Norreklit

Sold

H 28.5 in W 71.5 in D 35.5 in

Lucite And Rosewood Desk By Poul Norreklit

By Poul Nørreklit

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A striking and finely detailed work desk of rectilinear form having a rosewood rectangular top and four drawers (one of which has a lock) floating above an "invisible" acrylic base.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

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$16,923

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Exceptional and spectacular French Art Deco wood desk. Two drawers in facade, circa 1930.

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Lucite Writing Desk For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal lucite writing desk for your home. Each lucite writing desk for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using plastic, lucite and metal. Find 101 options for an antique or vintage lucite writing desk now, or shop our selection of 11 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. There are many kinds of the lucite writing desk you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 20th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. A lucite writing desk made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Modern — is very popular. A well-made lucite writing desk has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Vladimir Kagan, Modshop and Herman Miller are consistently popular.

How Much is a Lucite Writing Desk?

A lucite writing desk can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $4,867, while the lowest priced sells for $900 and the highest can go for as much as $55,000.

Materials: Plastic Furniture

Arguably the world’s most ubiquitous man-made material, plastic has impacted nearly every industry. In contemporary spaces, new and vintage plastic furniture is quite popular and its use pairs well with a range of design styles.

From the Italian lighting artisans at Fontana Arte to venturesome Scandinavian modernists such as Verner Panton, who created groundbreaking interiors as much as he did seating — see his revolutionary Panton chair — to contemporary multidisciplinary artists like Faye Toogood, furniture designers have been pushing the boundaries of plastic forever.

When The Graduate's Mr. McGuire proclaimed, “There’s a great future in plastics,” it was more than a laugh line. The iconic quote is an allusion both to society’s reliance on and its love affair with plastic. Before the material became an integral part of our lives — used in everything from clothing to storage to beauty and beyond — people relied on earthly elements for manufacturing, a process as time-consuming as it was costly.

Soon after American inventor John Wesley Hyatt created celluloid, which could mimic luxury products like tortoiseshell and ivory, production hit fever pitch, and the floodgates opened for others to explore plastic’s full potential. The material altered the history of design — mid-century modern legends Charles and Ray Eames, Joe Colombo and Eero Saarinen regularly experimented with plastics in the development of tables and chairs, and today plastic furnishings and decorative objects are seen as often indoors as they are outside.

Find vintage plastic lounge chairs, outdoor furniture, lighting and more on 1stDibs.

Finding the Right Desks-writing-tables for You

Choosing the perfect writing desk or writing table is a profoundly personal journey, one that people have been embarking upon for centuries.

Queen Atossa of Persia, from her writing table circa 500 B.C., is said to have been the originator of the art of handwritten letters. Hers was reportedly the first in a long and colorful history of penned correspondence that grew in popularity alongside literacy. The demand for suitable writing desks, which would serve the composer of the letters as well as ensure the comfort of the recipient naturally followed, and the design of these necessary furnishings has evolved throughout history.

Once people began to seek freedom from the outwardly ornate styles of the walnut and rosewood writing desks and drafting tables introduced in the name of Queen Victoria and King Louis XV, radical shifts occurred, such as those that materialized during the Art Nouveau period, when designers longed to produce furniture inspired by the natural world’s beauty. A prime example is the work of the famous late-19th-century Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí — his rolltop desk featured deep side drawers and was adorned with carved motifs that paid tribute to nature. Gaudí regularly combined structural precision with decorative elements, creating beautiful pieces of furniture in wood and metal.

Soon afterward, preferences for sleek, geometric, stylized forms in furniture that saw an emphasis on natural wood grains and traditional craftsmanship took hold. Today, Art Deco desks are still favored by designers who seek to infuse interiors with an air of luxury. One of the most prominent figures of the Art Deco movement was French decorator and furniture designer Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann. With his use of neoclassical motifs as well as expensive and exotic materials such as imported dark woods and inlays of precious metals for his writing desks, Ruhlmann came to symbolize good taste and modernity.

The rise in appreciation for Scandinavian modernism continues to influence the design of contemporary writing desks. It employs the “no fuss” or “less is more” approach to creating a tasteful, sophisticated space. Sweden’s master cabinetmaker Bruno Mathsson created gallery-worthy designs that are as functional as they are beautiful. Finnish architect Alvar Aalto never viewed himself as an artist, but, like Mathsson, his furniture designs reflected a fondness for organic materials and a humanistic approach. Danish designers such as Hans Wegner introduced elegant shapes and lines to mid-century desks and writing tables, often working in oak and solid teak.

From vintage desks to contemporary styles, 1stDibs offers a broad spectrum of choices for conducting all personal and business writing and reading activities.

Questions About Lucite Writing Desk

What is a writing desk?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A writing desk may refer to a desk with a top, often sloping, for writing on or to a portable case with compartments to hold writing materials and a surface for writing.
What is a small writing desk called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A small writing table is also called a davenport table or davenport desk. They normally feature a sloped or inclined top attached with hinges to the back of the table. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage davenport desks.
What is a writing desk with drawers called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
A writing desk with drawers is also called a secretary. It is a desk with drawers, one of which can be pushed out and the front of the desk lowered to create a flat writing surface. These writing desks have been made in a variety of styles over the years. Shop for a variety of writing tables with drawers on 1stDibs.
What is an old-fashioned writing desk called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
What an old-fashioned writing desk is called varies by design. Pieces with drop-down fronts are secretary desks (these are typically made of two parts: a chest of drawers on the bottom and a hutch or cupboard with shelves on the top), while ones that rest on two pillars, cabinets or bookcases are pedestal desks. A desk with a small writing surface positioned in front of drawers and cubbies is a bureau à gradin. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of desks.
What was the term in French furniture for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
In French, the term for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface is secretaire. This type of desk is called a secretary desk in English. Simply put, a secretary desk is a multifunctional piece of furniture with a hinged writing surface that folds open or drops down. When the leaf is folded out, small inner storage compartments, which are called pigeonholes, cubbies, recesses or drawers, are revealed. On 1stDibs, shop antique secretary desks from some of the world's top sellers.

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