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.

Knoll Writing Desk

Wood And Chrome Modern Desk

Franco Albini For Knoll

Warren Platner Executive Desk

Mid Century L Shaped Desk

Knoll Teak

Mies Van Der Rohe Desk

Chrome Mid Century Desk Table

Knoll 1940

Warren Platner for Knoll Writing Desk in Oak and Black Leather

$7,750

H 29.34 in W 89.77 in D 43.31 in

Warren Platner for Knoll Writing Desk in Oak and Black Leather

By Florence Knoll, Warren Platner

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Warren Platner for Knoll, writing desk, oak, chrome-plated steel, black leather, United States

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Warren Platner writing desk leather and oak Knoll United States 1970

$3,908

H 29.53 in W 78.75 in D 43.31 in

Warren Platner writing desk leather and oak Knoll United States 1970

By Warren Platner, Knoll

Located in Etten-Leur, NL

This refined writing desk by Warren Platner for Knoll beautifully balances modernist clarity with

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Florence Knoll, Executive Partners Desk in Rosewood, Knoll, USA 1960s

$8,939

H 28.55 in W 72.05 in D 38 in

Florence Knoll, Executive Partners Desk in Rosewood, Knoll, USA 1960s

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in Wargrave, Berkshire

Florence Knoll Executive Partners Desk, 1960s rosewood top on chromed steel column with quadruped

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Classic Midcentury Walnut and Chrome Florence Knoll Desk Knoll

$3,800

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Classic Midcentury Walnut and Chrome Florence Knoll Desk Knoll

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Buffalo, NY

Classic midcentury walnut and chrome Florence Knoll desk features richly grained walnut top chromed

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Early production Florence Knoll Desk, Classic Modernist design, Knoll New York

$4,300

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Early production Florence Knoll Desk, Classic Modernist design, Knoll New York

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in Buffalo, NY

Early production walnut and rosewood desk designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll ,features richly

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

1970s Mid Century Walnut Executive Desk Styled After Knoll

$2,750

H 29.25 in W 72 in D 36 in

1970s Mid Century Walnut Executive Desk Styled After Knoll

By Knoll

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Mid-Century Walnut and Chrome Executive Desk This refined mid-century executive desk is an elegant

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Custom Knoll 9' Executive Credenza Desk in Walnut & Chrome

$12,500

H 28.5 in W 108 in D 26 in

Custom Knoll 9' Executive Credenza Desk in Walnut & Chrome

By Knoll

Located in Stamford, CT

-designed Executive Credenza Desk. As a pioneer in interior design, Knoll founded the renowned "Planning

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Knoll K. Stand Electric Height-Adjustable Rectangle White Table Desk

$1,300

H 28 in W 72 in D 30 in

Knoll K. Stand Electric Height-Adjustable Rectangle White Table Desk

By Knoll

Located in Secaucus, NJ

Elegant K. stand ergonomic height-adjustable table desk/work center by Knoll. An electric

Category

2010s American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

Executive partner desk in rosewood by Florence Knoll, 1970s

$9,139Sale Price|20% Off

H 29.93 in W 72.05 in D 37.8 in

Executive partner desk in rosewood by Florence Knoll, 1970s

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Antwerpen, VAN

Florence Knoll’s Executive Partner Desk, designed in 1961, is a hallmark of mid-century modern

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Mid-Century Modern Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll international, 1970s

$5,772

H 28.94 in W 75.99 in D 36.23 in

Mid-Century Modern Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll international, 1970s

By Florence Knoll

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Modern Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll international Biography : Born to a baker

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Marble

Executive Desk in Walnut by Florence Knoll by Knoll Associates, USA, c. 1960s

$5,850

H 29 in W 66 in D 32 in

Executive Desk in Walnut by Florence Knoll by Knoll Associates, USA, c. 1960s

By Florence Knoll

Located in Deland, FL

Introducing a rare executive desk designed by the incomparable Florence Knoll for Knoll Associates

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

1960s Mid Century Walnut and Metal Executive Desk styled after Knoll

$2,450

H 28.75 in W 67 in D 35.75 in

1960s Mid Century Walnut and Metal Executive Desk styled after Knoll

By Knoll

Located in North Hollywood, CA

✨ Mid-Century Walnut & Metal Executive Desk ✨ This exceptional mid-century executive desk is a

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Franco Albini for Knoll 'Albini' Desk

$4,400

H 27.56 in W 48.04 in D 26.38 in

Franco Albini for Knoll 'Albini' Desk

By Franco Albini, Florence Knoll

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Franco Albini for Knoll International, 'Albini' desk, lacquered ash, glass, chromed steel, United

Category

Vintage 1920s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Early Vintage Knoll Walnut Wood Multi Use Conference Table Dining Table Desk

$5,800

H 28.75 in W 72 in D 36 in

Early Vintage Knoll Walnut Wood Multi Use Conference Table Dining Table Desk

By Knoll

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

An early vintage Knoll conference or dining table. This wonderful mid century modern table has a

Category

Late 20th Century American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

Early Franco Albini for Knoll Model '80' Desk

$4,400

H 27.37 in W 43.31 in D 26.38 in

Early Franco Albini for Knoll Model '80' Desk

By Knoll, Franco Albini

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Franco Albini for Knoll, model 80, glass, lacquered wood, lacquered steel, Italy, 1949 Franco

Category

1990s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

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

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Franco Albini's Mini Desk for Knoll 1970's

$5,591

H 27.56 in W 48.04 in D 25.99 in

Franco Albini's Mini Desk for Knoll 1970's

By Franco Albini, Knoll

Located in Milano, MI

Il tavolo scrittoio disegnato da Franco Albini per Knoll è costituito da una struttura in acciaio

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Vintage Cini Boeri for Knoll Lunario Cantilevered Table/Desk

$8,000

H 27.25 in W 59 in D 43.25 in

Vintage Cini Boeri for Knoll Lunario Cantilevered Table/Desk

By Cini Boeri, Knoll

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This elegant Mid-Century Modern desk features a polished stainless steel base with a 1/2 inch thick

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Early Mid Century Modern Franco Albini for Knoll 1928 Desk

$6,250

H 27.96 in W 48.04 in D 25.6 in

Early Mid Century Modern Franco Albini for Knoll 1928 Desk

By Franco Albini, Knoll

Located in Dronten, NL

Very early Albini Desk, designed by Franco Albini in 1928. Later versions of this design feature

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Franco Albini for Knoll - Chrome glass and black wood Desk

$4,208

H 27.56 in W 47.25 in D 25.99 in

Franco Albini for Knoll - Chrome glass and black wood Desk

By Knoll, Franco Albini

Located in Brussels, BE

Category

Vintage 1920s Italian Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Warren Platner Writing Desk in Oak with Black Leather Top

$3,850

H 29.34 in W 55.12 in D 35.44 in

Warren Platner Writing Desk in Oak with Black Leather Top

By Warren Platner, Florence Knoll

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Warren Platner for Knoll International, writing desk from the Executive Collection, leather

Category

Vintage 1970s American Post-Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Mid Century Desk, Warren Platner for Knoll, Steel, Oak, Chrome, 1970s

$7,500

H 29 in W 76.5 in D 22.5 in

Mid Century Desk, Warren Platner for Knoll, Steel, Oak, Chrome, 1970s

By Knoll, Warren Platner

Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Mid Century Desk, Warren Platner For Knoll, Steel, Oak, 1970s, Office, Executive Desk, Chrome

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Custom Order Executive Desk and Wall Mounted Cabinet by Warren Platner for Knoll

$36,000

H 29.5 in W 96 in D 48 in

Custom Order Executive Desk and Wall Mounted Cabinet by Warren Platner for Knoll

By Warren Platner, Knoll

Located in Sagaponack, NY

An inset leather top executive desk over cantilevered chrome plate steel legs with accompanying six

Category

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

Materials

Leather

Clean Lined Chrome Mid Century Desk

$1,650

H 29 in W 60 in D 30 in

Clean Lined Chrome Mid Century Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Atlanta, GA

Clean Lined Mid Century Chrome Desk, in the style of Florence Knoll, American, circa 1960s.

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Franco Albini Italian Midcentury Desk for Knoll 70's

$3,559Sale Price|20% Off

H 27.56 in W 47.25 in D 25.99 in

Franco Albini Italian Midcentury Desk for Knoll 70's

By Franco Albini

Located in bari, IT

Stickers.Stunning Franco Albini '1928' desk for Knoll international, this example 1958. A pebbled

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Clean Lined Mid Century Chrome Desk or Dining Table Base - No Glass

$650

H 29 in W 48 in D 35 in

Clean Lined Mid Century Chrome Desk or Dining Table Base - No Glass

By Florence Knoll

Located in Atlanta, GA

Clean Lined Mid Century Chrome Desk or Dining Table Base, in the style of Florence Knoll, American

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Vintage Herman Miller Table or Desk with Knoll Walnut Top

$1,520Sale Price / item|20% Off

H 29 in W 66 in D 36 in

Vintage Herman Miller Table or Desk with Knoll Walnut Top

By Herman Miller

Located in Pasadena, TX

A vintage dining or conference table or a desk. Beautiful Knoll top made of American Walnut on a

Category

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

Materials

Aluminum

Large Varnished Wood Executive Desk, in the style of Florence Knoll

$7,290

H 30.32 in W 98.23 in D 35.44 in

Large Varnished Wood Executive Desk, in the style of Florence Knoll

Located in Miami, FL

Large Varnished wood executive desk, in the style of Florence Knoll.

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Pace Collection Mid Century Italian Modern Thick Black Marble Granite Top Desk

$7,800

H 30 in W 54 in D 24 in

Pace Collection Mid Century Italian Modern Thick Black Marble Granite Top Desk

By Knoll, Pace Collection

Located in Rockaway, NJ

High quality mid century modern black granite desk with shelf or bookcase in the back.

Category

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

Materials

Granite, Aluminum

Recent Sales

Knoll International Executive Desk S 872 Florence Knoll

Unavailable

H 29.14 in W 78.75 in D 39.38 in

Knoll International Executive Desk S 872 Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Köln, NRW

Writing desk by Florence Knoll model 872 Steel frame chromed, top wood lacquered white with two

Category

Mid-20th Century European Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Florence Knoll Executive Desk for Knoll International

Unavailable

H 29.53 in W 74.81 in D 35.44 in

Florence Knoll Executive Desk for Knoll International

By Wohnbedarf, Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Zurich, CH

Beautiful teak desk designed by Florence Knoll.

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Modernist Corner Desk Florence Knoll

Unavailable

H 29.14 in W 74.81 in D 35.44 in

Modernist Corner Desk Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll

Located in Antwerpen, BE

An L-shaped working space from the series model 1500. The executive desk (190 x 90 x 74) has a

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Teak

Florence Knoll Walnut Executive Desk for Knoll Associates, 1960

Unavailable

H 29 in W 72 in D 36 in

Florence Knoll Walnut Executive Desk for Knoll Associates, 1960

By Florence Knoll

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Modern Executive desk, designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll, circa 1960s. Large-scale with a clean

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Mid-Century 1970s Knoll Lunario Table Desk by Cini Boeri, Desk to Impress

Unavailable

H 28 in W 59 in D 43.25 in

Mid-Century 1970s Knoll Lunario Table Desk by Cini Boeri, Desk to Impress

By Knoll, Cini Boeri

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A Mid-Century Modern table or desk designed by Cini Boeri and made by Knoll. A chrome elliptical

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Large 'Executive Desk' by Warren Platner

Unavailable

H 29.53 in W 42.92 in D 77.96 in

Large 'Executive Desk' by Warren Platner

By Knoll

Located in London, GB

An ‘Executive Desk’ designed by Warren Platner for Knoll International, the luxurious black-leather

Category

Vintage 1970s British Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Oak

Franco Albini Desk for Knoll International, USA 1960

Unavailable

H 27.56 in W 48.04 in D 26.78 in

Franco Albini Desk for Knoll International, USA 1960

By Franco Albini

Located in Wilnis, UT

A wonderful desk designed by Franco Albini and manufactured by Knoll International in the USA

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Knoll International Complete Office Warren Platner Desk and Sideboards

Unavailable

H 29.53 in W 89.77 in D 42.52 in

Knoll International Complete Office Warren Platner Desk and Sideboards

By Warren Platner

Located in Köln, NRW

Knoll International complete office by Warren Platner desk + sideboards Desk: frame steel

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century European Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Knoll International Executive / Partner's Writing Desk, by F. Knoll, 1961

Sold

H 28.35 in W 72.05 in D 37.8 in

Knoll International Executive / Partner's Writing Desk, by F. Knoll, 1961

By Florence Knoll

Located in Berlin, DE

Executive Desk or Partner's Desk, designed 1961 by Florence Knoll for Knoll International. The

Category

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

Materials

Stainless Steel

Franco Albini Writing Desk Knoll International, 1949

Sold

H 26.38 in W 48.04 in D 27.56 in

Franco Albini Writing Desk Knoll International, 1949

By Franco Albini, Knoll

Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant

Rare and early writing desk model 1928 designed by Franco Albini and manufactured by Knoll

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Partners Desk Florence Knoll

Sold

H 29.75 in W 72 in D 37.5 in

Partners Desk Florence Knoll

By Knoll

Located in Chula Vista, CA

For your consideration a partners desk in walnut wood. Partial label from Knoll in one of the

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel, Chrome

Florence Knoll Partners Desk

Sold

H 28.5 in W 72 in D 38 in

Florence Knoll Partners Desk

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Partners desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll. This oak desk consist of four drawers, two on each side

Category

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

Materials

Oak

Franco Albini Glass & Metal Writing Desk for Knoll International, 1949

Sold

H 28.35 in W 48.04 in D 25.6 in

Franco Albini Glass & Metal Writing Desk for Knoll International, 1949

By Knoll, Franco Albini

Located in The Hague, NL

Rare and early age writing desk designed by Franco Albini and manufactured by Knoll International

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Knoll by Florence Knoll Ebonized Oak Mini Desk

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H 28.75 in W 48.04 in D 25.99 in

Knoll by Florence Knoll Ebonized Oak Mini Desk

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in Basildon, London

Originally designed by Florence Knoll in 1954, the Mini Desk is part of the High Table range

Category

2010s Italian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll 1950S

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H 29.53 in W 83.86 in D 63.59 in

Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll 1950S

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in bruxelles, BE

Desk composed of 2 pedestals with 3 drawers per pedestal. Foot in chrome metal. Wear due to time

Category

Vintage 1950s Central American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Florence Knoll Desk

Sold

H 29.14 in W 65.75 in D 75.2 in

Florence Knoll Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Antwerp, BE

Rare and Beautiful L Shaped Desk Designed by Florence Knoll L 167 cm x D 191 cm x H 74 cm USA

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Florence Knoll Desk

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H 29.14 in W 65.75 in D 75.2 in

Florence Knoll Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Antwerp, BE

Rare and Beautiful L Shaped Desk Designed by Florence Knoll L 167 cm x D 191 cm x H 74 cm USA

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

FLORENCE KNOLL Desk

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H 29.14 in W 65.75 in D 75.2 in

FLORENCE KNOLL Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Antwerp, BE

Rare and Beautiful L Shaped Desk Designed by Florence Knoll L 167 cm x D 191 cm x H 74 cm USA

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

1960s Writing Desk Warren Platner for Knoll Luxurious Walnut & Chrome

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H 29 in W 78.75 in D 39.5 in

1960s Writing Desk Warren Platner for Knoll Luxurious Walnut & Chrome

By Knoll, Warren Platner

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Desk 1960s Modern Desk designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. Chrome plated legs in a cantilever

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Florence Knoll Walnut Executive Desk for Knoll, 1961

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H 28.55 in W 71.86 in D 38 in

Florence Knoll Walnut Executive Desk for Knoll, 1961

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Milano, Lombardia

Extraordinary executive desk designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll in 1961. Chrome-plated steel base

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Large Knoll Walnut Executive Desk

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H 29 in W 72 in D 34 in

Large Knoll Walnut Executive Desk

By Knoll

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Very nice large walnut executive desk.

Category

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

Florence Knoll for Knoll Walnut and Chrome Executive Desk

Sold

H 29 in W 66 in D 32 in

Florence Knoll for Knoll Walnut and Chrome Executive Desk

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Florence knoll walnut desk with square tube frame. Newly refinished and ready to go! Ample work

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Florence Knoll Maple Desk

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H 29.5 in W 48 in D 24 in

Florence Knoll Maple Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Bainbridge, NY

early Florence Knoll solid Maple Desk in natural finish with 3 drawers and 3 legs. Refinished

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Maple

Florence Knoll Partners Desk

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H 28.25 in W 66 in D 36 in

Florence Knoll Partners Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in San Francisco, CA

Outstanding Partners desk by Florence Knoll. Features two pencil drawers. Newly refinished rosewood

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

1960s Sophisticated Knoll Executive Partners Desk

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H 29 in W 72.25 in D 36 in

1960s Sophisticated Knoll Executive Partners Desk

By Knoll

Located in Chula Vista, CA

1960s Classic Knoll Desk sophisticated large executive partners desk with chrome steel four-star

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll

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H 29 in W 76 in D 36 in

Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll

By Knoll

Located in Atlanta, GA

Modern executive desk, designed by Florence Knoll, American, circa 1960s. Large scale with a clean

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll

Sold

H 29 in W 76 in D 36 in

Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll

By Knoll

Located in Atlanta, GA

Modern Executive Desk, designed by Florence Knoll, American, circa 1960's. Large scale with a clean

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Florence Knoll Table Desk

Sold

H 29 in W 78 in D 48 in

Florence Knoll Table Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in SAINT LOUIS, MO

From the Knoll website Florence Knoll described her designs the fill-in pieces which had to be

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Model 17 Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll Associates

Sold

H 29 in W 24 in D 48 in

Model 17 Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll Associates

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Chicago, IL

Laminate top with maple construction. Tagged.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Maple

Rosewood Executive Desk by Florence Knoll

Sold

H 28.5 in W 72 in D 38 in

Rosewood Executive Desk by Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA

Rosewood executive partners desk by Florence Knoll. Manufactured by Knoll. Highly figured rosewood

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Rosewood Desk / Vanity by Florence Knoll for Knoll International

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H 28.75 in W 70.87 in D 19.69 in

Rosewood Desk / Vanity by Florence Knoll for Knoll International

By Florence Knoll

Located in Dronten, NL

Exceptional vanity / desk designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll International, USA. 1960s example

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Partners Desk by Florence Knoll

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Partners Desk by Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll

Located in New York, NY

A classic partners deks by Florence Knoll. USA, circa 1970. Beautifully refinished

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

1960s Rosewood Partners Desk by Florence Knoll

Sold

H 28.5 in W 72 in D 38 in

1960s Rosewood Partners Desk by Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A rosewood partners desk with two slim drawers on each side atop a heavy machined steel base.

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Florence Knoll L Shaped Desk with Return by KNOLL

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H 29 in W 66 in D 43.5 in

Florence Knoll L Shaped Desk with Return by KNOLL

By Florence Knoll

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Large executive desk with return making an L shape. Modesty panel and white formica top with three

Category

Vintage 1950s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut, Formica

Mid-Century Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll, Wooden Desk, Italy, 1960s

Sold

H 28.75 in W 72.05 in D 37.8 in

Mid-Century Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll, Wooden Desk, Italy, 1960s

By Knoll

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Modern Executive Desk by Florence Knoll, Wooden Desk, Italy, 1960s

Category

Vintage 1960s French Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Florence Knoll Walnut Executive Desk with Laminate Top

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H 29 in W 60 in D 30 in

Florence Knoll Walnut Executive Desk with Laminate Top

By Knoll

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Florence knoll walnut executive desk with laminate top. Item features chrome frame, white laminate

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Impressive Florence Knoll Executive Desk

Sold

H 29.53 in W 72.05 in D 35.83 in

Impressive Florence Knoll Executive Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Munich, DE

Big chromed base with oak top. Wonderful grain. Can also be used as conference or dining table. Early base with high adjustable ends.

Category

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

Materials

Oak

Restored Charcoal Black Mid-Century Modern Knoll Desk

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H 29.25 in W 66 in L 29.25 in

Restored Charcoal Black Mid-Century Modern Knoll Desk

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Houston, TX

Restored charcoal black Mid-Century Modern Knoll desk. Circa 1950s/ 60s.

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Wood & Steel Desk by Florence Knoll

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Wood & Steel Desk by Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll

Located in New York, NY

Wood and brushed steel desk by Florence Knoll. USA, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Florence Knoll desk with metal base

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H 29 in W 60 in D 30 in

Florence Knoll desk with metal base

By Florence Knoll

Located in Highland, IN

This desk designed by Florence Knoll has a wonderful scale and minimal design that makes it

Category

Vintage 1960s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Early Florence Knoll signle pedestal desk

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H 29 in W 66 in D 32 in

Early Florence Knoll signle pedestal desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Highland, IN

This classic Florence Knoll desk, like so many of her designs, is refined, understated and

Category

Vintage 1950s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut, Mahogany

White Laminate Oval Desk Table by Florence Knoll

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H 27.5 in W 78 in D 48 in

White Laminate Oval Desk Table by Florence Knoll

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This Classic Florence Knoll design features a 78" oval smooth white laminate top and a base of

Category

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

Walter Knoll Executive Desk, Germany, 1970

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H 29.14 in W 78.75 in L 29.14 in

Walter Knoll Executive Desk, Germany, 1970

By Walter Knoll

Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant

Knoll, Germany, 1970. Black stained ash wooden desk, with black leather inlay, 2 cm thick flat stainless

Category

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

Materials

Stainless Steel

Restored Charcoal Black Florence Knoll Mid-Century Modern Desk

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H 29 in W 72 in L 29 in

Restored Charcoal Black Florence Knoll Mid-Century Modern Desk

By Knoll, Florence Knoll

Located in Houston, TX

Restored charcoal black florence knoll Mid-Century Modern Desk, circa 1950s-1960s.

Category

Vintage 1960s North American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Florence Knoll Marble and Rosewood Desk, 1960

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H 29.93 in W 51.19 in L 29.93 in

Florence Knoll Marble and Rosewood Desk, 1960

By Florence Knoll

Located in Grenoble, FR

Florence Knoll Desk Knoll, circa 1960 Stainless steel, marble and rosewood Perfect condition.

Category

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

Materials

Carrara Marble, Chrome

1950s Knoll & Drake Formica and Walnut Desk

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H 28.75 in W 48.04 in D 23.63 in

1950s Knoll & Drake Formica and Walnut Desk

By Knoll & Drake

Located in Basildon, London

Designed and manufactured by Knoll & Drake, this 1950s desk is both practical and timeless

Category

Vintage 1950s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Formica, Walnut

1950s Knoll & Drake Formica and Walnut Desk

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H 28.75 in W 48.04 in D 23.63 in

1950s Knoll & Drake Formica and Walnut Desk

By Knoll & Drake

Located in Basildon, London

Designed and manufactured by Knoll & Drake, this 1950s desk is both practical and timeless

Category

Vintage 1950s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Formica

Birch and Walnut Single Pedestal Desk by Florence Knoll

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H 29 in W 50 in D 28 in

Birch and Walnut Single Pedestal Desk by Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Highland, IN

This elegant little desk by Florence Knoll in birch with walnut legs was designed in 1947 and in

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Birch, Walnut

Florence Knoll Lacquer and Chrome Desk, 1960s

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H 29.14 in W 70.87 in D 35.44 in

Florence Knoll Lacquer and Chrome Desk, 1960s

By Florence Knoll

Located in Paris, IDF

Perfect Mid-Century Modern proportions, designed by Florence Knoll for Knoll International in 1955

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Beautiful Florence Knoll Oval Table or Desk

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H 28.35 in W 77.96 in D 48.04 in

Beautiful Florence Knoll Oval Table or Desk

By Florence Knoll

Located in Munich, DE

Walnut top and chrome base in wonderful condition. Designed in 1961.

Category

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

Knoll Walnut Mid Century Modern Double Pedestal Desk with White Laminate Top

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H 29 in W 60 in D 30 in

Knoll Walnut Mid Century Modern Double Pedestal Desk with White Laminate Top

By Knoll

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

A Knoll walnut double pedestal desk. This is a gorgeous office desk, perfect for a mid century home

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Desk by Warren Platner for Knoll 1970s

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H 29.93 in W 77.96 in D 42.92 in

Desk by Warren Platner for Knoll 1970s

By Knoll, Warren Platner

Located in bruxelles, BE

Desk with leather and wood shelf, metal legs. It has a leather storage box with two drawers. Wear

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Double Sided Desk in Black Lacquered by Florence Knoll, 1960s

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H 29.53 in W 72.05 in D 38.19 in

Double Sided Desk in Black Lacquered by Florence Knoll, 1960s

By Florence Knoll

Located in Brussels, BE

Double Sided Desk in Black Lacquered Wood And Chromed Steel Base by Florence Knoll, 1960

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Franco Albini Minimalist Desk for Knoll International, 1950s

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H 27.56 in W 48.04 in D 26.19 in

Franco Albini Minimalist Desk for Knoll International, 1950s

By Knoll, Franco Albini

Located in Brussels, BE

Franco Albini Minimalist desk for Knoll International, 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

1960s Mid Century Rosewood And Chrome Desk By Florence Knoll

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H 26.78 in W 47.25 in D 18.12 in

1960s Mid Century Rosewood And Chrome Desk By Florence Knoll

By Florence Knoll

Located in London, GB

A rare 1960s Florence Knoll desk crafted in exquisite Rosewood. A true collector's piece, this

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Warren Platner Conference Desk for Knoll International, 1973

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H 29.53 in W 90.56 in D 43.31 in

Warren Platner Conference Desk for Knoll International, 1973

By Knoll, Warren Platner

Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant

Huge conference desk designed by Warren Platner for Knoll International, USA, 1973. This desk is

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Executive Walnut Desk by Gordon Bunshaft for Knoll

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H 29 in W 72 in D 32 in

Executive Walnut Desk by Gordon Bunshaft for Knoll

By Knoll, Gordon Bunshaft

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Vintage executive walnut desk by Gordon Bunshaft for Knoll. Features two pull-out drawers with

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

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Knoll Writing Desk For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the knoll writing desk you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, metal and chrome, every knoll writing desk was constructed with great care. Your living room may not be complete without a knoll writing desk — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A knoll writing desk, designed in the Mid-Century Modern or Modern style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. Many designers have produced at least one well-made knoll writing desk over the years, but those crafted by Knoll, Florence Knoll and Warren Platner are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Knoll Writing Desk?

Prices for a knoll writing desk start at $1,750 and top out at $27,500 with the average selling for $4,800.

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 Knoll 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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