Ebonized Writing Desk

Questions About Ebonized 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's the difference between a desk and a writing table?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  Desks typically include drawers or storage compartments, while writing tables (and secretary desks) offer a flatter surface with little to no built-in storage.

• 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.

• What's the difference between a mid-century modern desk and a writing table?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  Desks typically include drawers or storage, while writing tables are a flatter, more minimal work surface; check the listing description for storage details.