Karl Springer Lacquered Goat Skin Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in Montreal, QC
Karl Springer Lacquered Goat Skin Desk
Category
1980s American Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Goatskin
Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
American, German, 1931-1991
The Berlin-born, New York–based designer Karl Springer brought a chic, high-fashion sensibility to his coffee tables, mirrors, Lucite lamps and other furnishings. During his heyday in the 1970s, Springer’s work was a favorite of the glamour set, who enjoyed the novelty of pieces finished in rich and striking materials that ranged from exotic hides and skins to lacquer and chromed metal.
In a sense, Springer was a pre-postmodernist. Much as the dull, safe, corporate sameness of late 20th-century modernism prompted Ettore Sottsass, Michael Graves and others to explore new and provocative structures and materials in design and architecture, so, too, was Springer driven to enliven his creations with fresh and alluring energy and sleekness.
Springer came to New York in the late 1950s and found work arranging window displays at the department store Lord & Taylor. He had studied bookbinding in Germany, and, using his meticulous skills, he began crafting desk accessories wrapped in leather as a sideline. These pieces were sold in luxury stores like Bergdorf Goodman and drew a sophisticated clientele that included the Duchess of Windsor.
By 1965, Springer had established his own Manhattan atelier. It was Pierre Scapula, decorator to Jackie and Aristotle Onassis, who spotted Springer's disco-era Onassis chairs — which didn't yet have a name — first commissioned for a private residence in Acapulco, on the floor of the designer’s East 61st Street showroom. Jackie ordered barstools for the couple’s yacht, the Christina O, and dining chairs for their house on the Greek mainland.
At the time of his death, Springer had showrooms as far afield as Los Angeles, Tokyo and Munich.
The chairs, tables, credenzas and other furniture forms Springer created are generally simple, but substantial, and often have robust, rounded lines. The appeal of his work lies in Springer's insistence on exacting construction and, above all, his eye for unusual materials and finishes.
Springer employed Lucite, brass, and gunmetal along with chromed and polished steel, and revived exquisite finishes rarely seen since the days of Art Deco masters such as Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann and Jean-Michel Frank: shagreen (a type of sharkskin), python, goatskin, bone, horn, and lacquered parchment, as well as fabrics that include batik prints. Made of such materials, Springer’s work is by its very nature flamboyant and eye-catching: a suite of pieces will astonish, and an artfully placed side table in exotic hide will add a surprising spark.
Find a collection of vintage Karl Springer furniture today on 1stDibs.
to
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
10
10
4
1
10
1
9
6
2
6
4
3
3
2
7
7
1
1
1
10
10
10
151
116
62
43
40
Creator: Karl Springer
Shagreen desk
$29,500
Shagreen desk
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Shagreen desk by Karl Springer. Signed.
Category
1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Shagreen
Karl Springer Waterfall Desk in Tortoise Color Penshell, 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in Miami, FL
A Karl Springer desk in Tortoise color Pen-Shell with 3 recessed drawers. Signed with brass plaque.
Category
1970s Philippine Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Shell, Wood
Karl Springer Shagreen & Chrome Executive Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in Denton, TX
Extremely Rare Karl Springer Shagreen & chrome executive desk. Each corner has brass accents to compliment the chrome. Dark Shagreen top and ...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Brass, Chrome
Vintage Boho Karl Springer Shagreen Wrapped Writing Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This vintage Boho Karl Springer writing desk, wrapped in luxurious shagreen, combines sleek lines with exotic texture. A sophisticated and s...
Category
Late 20th Century American Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Shagreen, Wood
Karl Springer Crocodile Leather 2 Drawer Console Table
By Karl Springer
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
An Alligator leather console by Karl Springer 2 drawers make this a useful form. Karl Springer leather label below
Category
1970s American Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather
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
1970s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Gold, Brass
Original Vintage Karl Springer Executive Black Lacquered Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in North Miami, FL
This large scale executive desk belonged to the late fashion designer, Geoffrey Beene. Sourced from his Estate in Oyster Bay, NY, it is in good vintage condition, 4 invisible drawer...
Category
1980s American Post-Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Vintage Karl Springer Embossed Leather Writing Desk, Labeled
By Karl Springer
Located in North Hollywood, CA
An exceptional vintage leather-wrapped desk designed by the legendary Karl Springer in the United States during the 1970s. Known for elevating everyday furniture into sculptural work...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
Lacquered goatskin two drawer desk
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Lacquered goatskin two drawer desk by Karl Springer.
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Goatskin
Related Items
Lady’s Desk or Vanity in Mahogany, Czechoslovakia, 1970s
$459Sale Price|50% Off
H 28.35 in W 31.5 in D 17.72 in
Lady’s Desk or Vanity in Mahogany, Czechoslovakia, 1970s
By Up Závody
Located in Zohor, SK
Beautiful midcentury desk, originally used as a desk for a lady, or vanity in the bedroom. The table is elegant combination of lighter birch wood on the sides and mahogany wood on to...
Category
1970s Czech Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Birch, Mahogany
1980s Faux Painted Goat Skin & Leather Coffee Table in Style of Karl Springer
$3,250
H 16.25 in W 66 in D 48 in
1980s Faux Painted Goat Skin & Leather Coffee Table in Style of Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in St. Louis, MO
Large scale custom 1980s coffee table in the style of Karl Springer, with faux painted goat skin oversized Ming style legs and a leather top. Came it of a mid-century modern house bu...
Category
1980s American Hollywood Regency Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Wood, Paint
Sonia Writing Desk in Cream Shagreen and Bronze-Patina Brass by R&Y Augousti
$9,861 / item
H 29.53 in W 19.69 in D 47.25 in
Sonia Writing Desk in Cream Shagreen and Bronze-Patina Brass by R&Y Augousti
By R & Y Augousti
Located in New York, NY
The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. The Sonia writing desk...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Brass
Stacked Writing Desk in Cream Shagreen by R&Y Augousti
$13,035 / item
H 29.53 in W 19.69 in D 51.19 in
Stacked Writing Desk in Cream Shagreen by R&Y Augousti
By R & Y Augousti
Located in New York, NY
The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. The stacked writing desk...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Shagreen Stingray
Vintage Modern Karl Springer Attributed Rattan Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A vintage modern woven rattan table attributed to Karl Springer. In great condition.
Category
20th Century American Modern Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Rattan
1968 Executive Desk
By Warren Platner
Located in Hanover, MA
Executive desk formerly belonging to noted architect George M. Notter, (1933–2007) of the Boston firm Anderson Notter Finegold (now known as Finegold Alexander Architects). Current institutional memory at the firm suggests it was a special order from Herman Miller for the then new New York offices of MGM, however Herman Miller's archivist was unable to confirm. Styling, particularly the distinctive slim milled aluminum tracks through which the entire drawer carriage glides is clearly similar to Warren Platner's designs for Lehigh-Leopold which were then among the most costly of executive office furnishings. The bent flat bar chromed steel base with its distinctive pigeon toe splay is somewhat similar to a table base in Stow Davis' Electa Series, designed by Alexis Yermakov circa 1971. Walnut laminate top is very clean with no issues. One corner edge shows a small separation. The only identifying markings are within the milled aluminum channel: G.P. F.I. 2 And the date Dec. 20, 1968. See image 18. Between the rectangular laminate top and the chrome base is a heavy blackened steel plate. Underneath the bent chrome pigeon toe feet are bars of a thick phenolic material which act as floor protector. We can have keys made to fit the two locking drawers. Tim Anderson...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Aluminum, Steel, Chrome
1970s Writing Desk, Italy
Located in Praha, CZ
- Item was carefully refurbished - sturdy and stable - mahogany veneer
Category
1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
Stash Desk lacquer & walnut , lacquer drawers, lacquer and wood desk, waterfall
$4,485 / item
H 30 in W 60 in D 24 in
Stash Desk lacquer & walnut , lacquer drawers, lacquer and wood desk, waterfall
Located in Ridgewood, NY
A Minimalist’s dream, the stash desk is a perfect combination of deep, rich walnut with a pop of color. Its slim and clean profile is ideal for small spaces...
Category
2010s American Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood, Lacquer
1960s Mid Century Walnut and Chrome Executive Desk by Florence Knoll
$4,350
H 29 in W 75.75 in D 35 in
1960s Mid Century Walnut and Chrome Executive Desk by Florence Knoll
By Florence Knoll
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Mid-Century Walnut and Chrome Desk by Florence Knoll Elevate your workspace with this iconic mid-century walnut desk, designed and manufactured by Florence Knoll. Featuring a beauti...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Karl Springer Style Lucite and Chrome Console Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This stunning vintage table in the style of Karl Springer features thick Lucite posts connected with chrome X-style frame which adds stability and style to the piece. Thick beveled g...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Chrome
Karl Springer Reptile Embossed Leather Cocktail Table, Signed and Dated 1983
$6,100Sale Price|30% Off
H 16 in W 48 in D 36 in
Karl Springer Reptile Embossed Leather Cocktail Table, Signed and Dated 1983
By Karl Springer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This gorgeous Karl Springer (signed) reptile embossed leather coffee table is signed and dated 1983, the same year that brought us Risky Business, Scarface, National Lampoon...
Category
1980s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather
Secrétaire Desk in Shagreen and Palmwood by R&Y Augousti
$10,400 / item
H 46.46 in W 12.6 in D 33.86 in
Secrétaire Desk in Shagreen and Palmwood by R&Y Augousti
By R & Y Augousti
Located in New York, NY
The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Shagreen Stingray, Palmwood
Previously Available Items
Karl Springer Goatskin Freeform Desk, 1988
By Karl Springer
Located in Chicago, IL
Rare Karl Springer Goatskin Freeform Desk with/1 drawer, 1988. Original beautiful condition. Very few of these Freeform Desk’s were made Measures 29.5” tall 76” wide 38” deep
Category
1980s American Post-Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Goatskin
Karl Springer Zebra Wood Writing Table w/ Steel and Brass, USA c 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in Norwalk, CT
Karl Springer, rose to world acclaim in the 1970s. He created custom furniture sought by the glitterati, famously utilizing exotic and unusual materials, and superior craftsmanship. ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Zebra Wood
Round Dining Center able with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in Atlanta, GA
A glamorous circular dining table designed by Karl Springer circa 1980s. Supported by a pedestal in a large column shape, the thick tabletop features a rounded beveled edge and encir...
Category
1980s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Stone
Karl Springer Ming Writing Desk/Console in Embossed Crocodile 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Beautifully crafted Ming Writing Desk/Console in lacquered embossed crocodile leather with 3 drawers by Karl Springer, American 1970's. This was originally designed as a console whi...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
White Parsons Desk with Embossed Leather, Shagreen, by Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in New York City, NY
A sleek desk covered in eye-catching embossed leather. In excellent condition.
Category
1970s American Post-Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Wood, Lacquer, Shagreen Stingray
Karl Springer Rare "Goatskin Free Form Desk" 1988
By Karl Springer
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare and exceptional "Goatskin Free Form Desk" in high gloss lacquered goatskin with drawer by Karl Springer, American 1988 (date stamped on bottom). Springer’s Free Form...
Category
1980s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Goatskin, Wood, Lacquer
Karl Springer Rare 3 Drawer Writing Desk in Brass and Polished Gunmetal 1970s
Sold
H 29 in W 54 in D 28 in
Karl Springer Rare 3 Drawer Writing Desk in Brass and Polished Gunmetal 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare "Square Leg Desk" in polished brass and polished gunmetal with inset top panels in 2-tone celadon and beige embossed lizard leather by Karl Springer, American 1970's. This desk ...
Category
1970s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal, Brass
Karl Springer Rare Writing Desk in Brass and Brushed Gunmetal 1970's
By Karl Springer
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare stunning "Square Leg Writing Desk" in gold tinted brass and brushed gunmetal with inset top panels in embossed shagreen leather by Karl Springer, American 1970's. This desk has ...
Category
1970s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal, Brass
Karl Springer Incredible Embossed Crocodile Leather Scroll Leg Desk, 1970s
Sold
H 29.5 in W 68.5 in D 26 in
Karl Springer Incredible Embossed Crocodile Leather Scroll Leg Desk, 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Large and impressive desk in 2-tone chocolate embossed crocodile leather with scroll legs and 2 drawers lines with moire silk by Karl Springer, American 1970's. The impeccable crafts...
Category
1970s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Silk, Wood
Rare Karl Springer Custom Designed Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A great custom example of Karl Springers work. Solid Brushed Chrome, Tooled leather and a modern take on a classic design. Authenticated by Tom Langevin.
Category
1970s North American Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Steel
1970s Modern Angled Leg Table or Desk by Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in Dallas, TX
A 1970s modern table by Karl Springer. This table is covered with goat hide, creating a smooth texture. It features two hidden drawers. With its light tones and linear profile soften...
Category
Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Goatskin
Karl Springer Goatskin and Brass Executive Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in Chicago, IL
Large waterfall desk by Karl Springer, circa 1970. Natural goatskin with brass pulls. Desk has two small top drawers, two large bottom drawers and two pull-out writing surfaces over ...
Category
1970s American Modern Vintage Karl Springer Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather
Karl Springer desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.
Karl Springer desks and writing tables are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of animal skin and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Karl Springer desks and writing tables, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original desks and writing tables by Karl Springer were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desks and writing tables by Florence Knoll, Pierre Paulin, and Pace Collection. Prices for Karl Springer desks and writing tables can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $8,400 and can go as high as $45,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $14,500.
Creators Similar to Karl Springer
More Karl Springer Furniture
Karl Springer Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Karl Springer Console Tables
Karl Springer Side Tables
Karl Springer Tables
Karl Springer Dining Room Tables
Karl Springer End Tables
Karl Springer Center Tables
Karl Springer Sofa Tables
Karl Springer Game Tables
Karl Springer Pedestals
Karl Springer Lighting
Karl Springer Seating