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 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 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 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's the difference between a desk and a writing table?

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?

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?

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

Lockable Writing Desk

Desk Mid Century 6 Drawers

Bramah London

Open Shelf Cupboard

Mummenthaler And Meier

Magic Box Mid Century

Teak Desk In A Box

Leather Writing Box

Collinson And Lock

Danish Modern Rosewood Writing Desk with Locking Drawer and Document Trays

$4,231

Danish Modern Rosewood Writing Desk with Locking Drawer and Document Trays

Located in Helsinki, FI

A beautifully crafted Danish Modern writing desk, produced in Denmark during the 1960s.

Category

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

Materials

Wood

17th Century Spanish Writing Desk with Drawer and Original Iron Lock

$7,898

17th Century Spanish Writing Desk with Drawer and Original Iron Lock

Located in Marbella, ES

17th Century Spanish writing desk with drawer and original iron lock.

Category

Antique 18th Century Spanish Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

1790 Gillows Cuban Hardwood Library Secretaire Desk Writing Table I Bramah Lock

$21,595Sale Price|20% Off

1790 Gillows Cuban Hardwood Library Secretaire Desk Writing Table I Bramah Lock

By Gillows of Lancaster & London

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

We are delighted to offer for sale this very rare circa 1790 George III Library writing desk secrataire by Gillows of Lancaster and London A rare find, looking through Gillows of ...

Category

Antique Late 18th Century English George III Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

1960s Danish Extending Writing Desk With Lock in Teak & Brass by Erik Buch

$2,969

1960s Danish Extending Writing Desk With Lock in Teak & Brass by Erik Buch

By Erik Buch, Arne Vodder

Located in Shepperton, Surrey

A 1960s extending desk in teak by Danish designer Erik Buch for Oddense Maskinsnedkeri. This beautiful desk features a drop-leaf teak extension, drawers with a brass key and fully ...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Exceptional 18th Century Indonesian Amboyna & Ebony Portable Writing Desk

$3,328

Exceptional 18th Century Indonesian Amboyna & Ebony Portable Writing Desk

Located in Apeldoorn, NL

The desk retains its original brass lock and key. These portable writing desks were used by senior Dutch East India Company (VOC) officials stationed throughout the Dutch East Indies.

Category

Antique 18th Century Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Amboyna

Antique French Gilt Bronze and Mahogany Bonheur du Jour

$43,191

Antique French Gilt Bronze and Mahogany Bonheur du Jour

Located in London, GB

A lockable cabinet surmounts the writing desk. Made from mahogany, it is topped by a pierced ormolu gallery above a cavetto frieze.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Ormolu

Finnish Mid-Century Birch Writing Desk with Locking Cabinet and Drawer, 1950s

$3,994

Finnish Mid-Century Birch Writing Desk with Locking Cabinet and Drawer, 1950s

Located in Helsinki, FI

Compact in scale yet highly practical, the desk works equally well as a writing desk, home office desk, or occasional workspace.

Category

Mid-20th Century Finnish Scandinavian Modern Desks

Materials

Birch

Bevan Funnell English Writing Desk, Yew Wood & Leather, Circa 1980s

$1,695

Bevan Funnell English Writing Desk, Yew Wood & Leather, Circa 1980s

Located in Perkasie, PA

Maker: Unmarked as to manufacture; attributed to Bevan Funnell Age: Approximately 40 years old Style: English Traditional Material: Yew wood with cherry finish, gold-embossed t...

Category

Vintage 1970s English Desks

Materials

Yew

1960’s Ejgil Petersen EP401 Executive Writing Desk - Kai Kristiansen

$3,650

1960’s Ejgil Petersen EP401 Executive Writing Desk - Kai Kristiansen

By Kai Kristiansen

Located in Bern, BE

1960’s Ejgil Petersen EP401 Executive Writing Desk. Lockable drawers with original key.

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Steel

Regency Style Crotch Mahogany and Tooled Leather Two Part Lady's Writing Desk

$3,500

Regency Style Crotch Mahogany and Tooled Leather Two Part Lady's Writing Desk

Located in Germantown, MD

A Regency Style Crotch Mahogany and Tooled Leather Two Part Lady's Writing Desk with lock and functional key. Size is 31.25" wide, 18.5" deep and 53.5" tall.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Regency Desks

Materials

Leather, Mahogany

Mid-Century Modern Rosewood Desk Magic Box Made in Brazil with Key

$3,187Sale Price|25% Off

Mid-Century Modern Rosewood Desk Magic Box Made in Brazil with Key

By Jean Gillon

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Stunning closable and lockable rosewood writing desk. The piece closes completely and can be key-locked to protect all your documents.

Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Rosewood

An Important 18th Century George Iii Satinwood and Sabicu Writing Cabinet

$60,063

An Important 18th Century George Iii Satinwood and Sabicu Writing Cabinet

Located in Benington, Herts

The shaped and inlaid pediment with vase finials above a pair of glazed doors with patera-inlaid scrolled lower supporting brackets, over a pair of doors inlaid with oval mahogany pa...

Category

Antique 1780s English George III Cabinets

Materials

Satinwood

Recent Sales

Abbess Rosewood and Brass Executive Desk Lockable G Plan Eames Era

Unavailable

H 29.14 in W 75.99 in D 35.83 in

Abbess Rosewood and Brass Executive Desk Lockable G Plan Eames Era

By Abbess

Located in Greater Manchester, GB

Abbess Furniture produced functional and highly desirable furniture throughout their history and were particularly favoured for their stunning and versatile desk designs which were t...

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Standing-Height Roll-Top Desk and Chair by George Nelson "Action Office"

Unavailable

H 43.31 in W 64.97 in D 32.29 in

Standing-Height Roll-Top Desk and Chair by George Nelson "Action Office"

By George Nelson

Located in Munster, DE

Large standing-height desk with matching chair by Herman Miller. Desk with lockable writing surface and storage compartment, four drawers at the front.

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Late 19th Century Victorian Inlaid Rosewood Writing Desk by Collinson and Lock

Unavailable

H 38.98 in W 47.64 in D 23.63 in

Late 19th Century Victorian Inlaid Rosewood Writing Desk by Collinson and Lock

Located in Poling, West Sussex

A very fine quality writing table by the prestigious London firm of cabinet makers, Collinson and Lock.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Regency Desks

Materials

Rosewood

Victorian Era English Walnut Davenport Writing Desk, circa 1870

Unavailable

H 30 in W 22 in D 21.5 in

Victorian Era English Walnut Davenport Writing Desk, circa 1870

Located in Charlevoix, MI

A handsome and very traditional English Davenport or writing desk, with lockable side storage, dated circa 1870.

Category

Antique 1870s English Victorian Desks

Materials

Brass

Collinson & Lock. Aesthetic Movement Two Drawer Writing Table.

Sold

H 28.94 in W 42.13 in D 24.02 in

Collinson & Lock. Aesthetic Movement Two Drawer Writing Table.

By Collinson & Lock

Located in London, GB

Collinson & Lock. A superior quality Aesthetic Movement two drawer writing table entirely made from solid rosewood including the drawer linings. The writing area with a blue baize re...

Category

Antique 1880s British Aesthetic Movement Desks and Writing Tables

Mission Quarter Sawn Oak Writing Desk w/ Lock Drawer

Sold

H 29 in W 36 in D 23 in

Mission Quarter Sawn Oak Writing Desk w/ Lock Drawer

Located in Van Nuys, CA

The desk has one large drawer in the center with original brass pulls and a center working lock with a key.

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Oak

Midcentury Danish Modern Light Teak Small Desk 3 Drawers Top Lockable Drawer

Sold

H 29 in W 43 in D 25 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Light Teak Small Desk 3 Drawers Top Lockable Drawer

By Hans J. Wegner, Børge Mogensen

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Great little midcentury Danish modern desk with 3 drawers with wooden pulls. Danish compact design. No labels, made in Denmark. Top drawer has original Key - Lockable. Located in Bro...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Tyrolean Style Ornate Pine Desk or Table with Locking Drawer from Austria

Sold

H 28.875 in W 55.25 in D 27.5 in

Tyrolean Style Ornate Pine Desk or Table with Locking Drawer from Austria

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Beautiful, almost folkloristic, Tyrolean style desk with pine wood frame and lower locking drawer. Organically carved, its traditional features in natural wood tone are contrasted by...

Category

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

Materials

Iron

Danish Modern 6 Drawer Writing Desk with Lock & Key

Sold

H 28.5 in W 53 in D 23.25 in

Danish Modern 6 Drawer Writing Desk with Lock & Key

Located in Freehold, NJ

This Danish modern writing desk features pressed wood construction, teak veneer with original finish, six dovetailed drawers with sculpted wood hardware, lock & key, and finished bac...

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks

Materials

Teak

19th Century English Regency Antique Black Leather Writing Box with Bramah Lock

Sold

H 6.13 in W 14.5 in D 10.75 in

19th Century English Regency Antique Black Leather Writing Box with Bramah Lock

Located in Shippensburg, PA

A VERY FINE LEATHER BOUND STATIONARY WRITING BOX Lock inscribed Bramah, London, inkwell inscribed Berry’s Patent, plate inscribed MARC, March 25 1872 Item # 806PHI26 An unusually fi...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Regency More Desk Accessories

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

Early 19th Century Swedish Folk Art Writing Bureau or Secretaire

Sold

H 43.71 in W 40.95 in D 20.87 in

Early 19th Century Swedish Folk Art Writing Bureau or Secretaire

Located in Kramfors, SE

Made in Swedish pine with high-quality craftsmanship. The bureau has a lock to the writing desk and intrior and the key is still present.

Category

Antique Early 19th Century Swedish Gustavian Secretaires

Materials

Pine

Danish Teak 4-Bay Cado Wall Unit Modular Shelving System Bar Desk Paul Cadovius

Sold

H 101.19 in W 125.99 in D 18.12 in

Danish Teak 4-Bay Cado Wall Unit Modular Shelving System Bar Desk Paul Cadovius

By Cado, Poul Cadovius

Located in Sherborne, Dorset

Two matching hinged cupboards each with a single wooden adjustable shelf. A two-drawer writing desk; a lockable drop down bar cabinet with mirror back and a white satin Mica laminate...

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Glass, Mirror, Formica, Teak

Tall Ebonized Secretaire with White Marble Top

Sold

H 52 in W 27.25 in D 14.5 in

Tall Ebonized Secretaire with White Marble Top

Located in Troy, MI

Found in England, this circa 1920s mahogany cabinet has a locking front panel that opens into a writing desk.

Category

Early 20th Century English Secretaires

Materials

Marble, Brass

Antique Swedish Cupboard in Grey and Antique White

Sold

H 78.35 in W 43.7 in D 18.7 in

Antique Swedish Cupboard in Grey and Antique White

Located in Atlanta, GA

The desk is 29.92 inches high, but the flap is secured with a second original working lock.

Category

Antique Early 19th Century Swedish Gustavian Cupboards

Materials

Brass

Danish Modern Rosewood Bookcase Cabinet By Brouer Møbelfabrik

Sold

H 80 in W 53 in D 19.5 in

Danish Modern Rosewood Bookcase Cabinet By Brouer Møbelfabrik

By Brouer Mobel, Erik Brouer

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The top two units, feature recessed open adjustable shelving and a lockable, drop-down, writing desk or bar serving surface, that protrudes 9.5" from the cabinet drawers.

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood, Glass

Edwardian Mahogany Campaign Desk with Lock and Key

Sold

H 23.5 in W 23 in D 23.75 in

Edwardian Mahogany Campaign Desk with Lock and Key

Located in Hudson, NY

This fine period Edwardian folding camp desk is made of mahogany and some selection of nicely figured boards has occurred. The desk is of a typical form and is structurally sound bei...

Category

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Architects Desk with Hidden Lockable Drawer, Style of Poul Kjaerholm

Sold

H 31.5 in W 70.87 in D 35.44 in

Architects Desk with Hidden Lockable Drawer, Style of Poul Kjaerholm

Located in Munich, DE

unique very well made. behind the lockable drawer is a second one - also lockable...... a storage from the other side. in used condition.

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Midcentury Danish Modern Teak Desk 3 Drawers Top Lockable Center Cabinet

Sold

H 29 in W 51 in D 27 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Teak Desk 3 Drawers Top Lockable Center Cabinet

By Børge Mogensen

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Great Danish modern mid century desk with 3 drawers with carved pulls. Danish design. No labels, made in Denmark. Kneehole cabinet has original Key - Lockable. All drawers slide smoo...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Midcentury Danish Modern Teak Small Desk 2 Drawers Top Lockable Drawer

Sold

H 28 in W 39.5 in D 23 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Teak Small Desk 2 Drawers Top Lockable Drawer

By Ejsing Mobelfabrik

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Great little mid century Danish modern desk with 2 drawers with carved wooden handles. Danish compact design. made in Denmark. Labeled on bottom. Top drawer has original Key - Lockab...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Midcentury Danish Modern Teak Small Desk 3 Drawers Top Lockable Drawer

Sold

H 29 in W 41 in D 23 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Teak Small Desk 3 Drawers Top Lockable Drawer

By Børge Mogensen

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Great little mid century Danish modern desk with 3 drawers with wooden pulls. Danish compact design. No labels, made in Denmark. Top drawer has original Key - Lockable. Located in Br...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Midcentury Danish Modern Light Teak Desk 6 Drawers Top Lockable Drawers Key

Sold

H 29 in W 53 in D 23 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Light Teak Desk 6 Drawers Top Lockable Drawers Key

By Børge Mogensen

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Great Medium sized mid century Danish modern light teak desk with 6 drawers with wooden pulls. Danish compact design. No labels, made in Denmark. Top 2 drawers has original Key - Loc...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

French Debournais One Drawer Tooled Leather Top Desk Table with Lock and Key

Sold

H 29 in W 28 in D 21.25 in

French Debournais One Drawer Tooled Leather Top Desk Table with Lock and Key

Located in Germantown, MD

Amazing French Debournais er tooled leather top desk / table with lock and key. One Large and very sleak drawer with a working lock and key Measures 27.75" W x 21.25" D x 29" H. Con...

Category

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

Materials

Leather, Hardwood

Standing-Height Roll-Top Desk and Chair by George Nelson "Action Office"

Sold

H 43.31 in W 64.97 in D 32.29 in

Standing-Height Roll-Top Desk and Chair by George Nelson "Action Office"

By George Nelson

Located in Rosendahl, DE

Large standing-height desk with matching chair by Herman Miller. Desk with lockable writing surface and storage compartment, four drawers at the front.

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Antique Writing Slope, Bramah Lock, Victorian, Mechi London, circa 1840

Sold

H 7.49 in W 19.89 in D 11.03 in

Antique Writing Slope, Bramah Lock, Victorian, Mechi London, circa 1840

By John Joseph Mechi

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique writing slope in mahogany with Bramah lock, an English, Victorian slope by renowned maker with Royal connections, John Joseph Mechi, dating to the early 19th centu...

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Victorian More Desk Accessories

Materials

Mahogany

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Ladder String Shelf with Elements, circa 1960

Sold

H 118.12 in W 37.41 in D 12.21 in

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Teak Ladder String Shelf with Elements, circa 1960

Located in Vienna, AT

The presented vintage teak ladder string shelf consists of two black lacquered ladder elements, which are holding a lockable writing desk with lighting, two boards and one book stora...

Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Midcentury Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

Sold

H 45 in W 32 in D 21 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

By Mummenthaler and Meier

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Midcentury teak closable locking teak writing desk called the "Magic Box", designed by Swiss Mummenthaler and Meier.

Category

Mid-20th Century Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

Sold

H 45 in W 32 in D 21 in

Midcentury Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

By Mummenthaler and Meier

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Midcentury teak closable locking teak writing desk called the "Magic Box", designed by Swiss Mummenthaler and Meier.

Category

Mid-20th Century Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Mid century Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak Made in Denmark

Sold

H 40 in W 40 in D 20 in

Mid century Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak Made in Denmark

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid century teak closable locking teak writing desk Similar to the Magic Box desk.

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Wood, Teak

Mid century Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

Sold

H 45 in W 32 in D 22 in

Mid century Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

By Mummenthaler and Meier

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid century teak closable locking teak writing desk called the "Magic Box", designed by Swiss Mummenthaler and Meier.

Category

Mid-20th Century Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Mid century Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

Sold

H 45 in W 32 in D 21 in

Mid century Danish Modern Magic Box Desk in Teak by Mummenthaler & Meier

By Mummenthaler and Meier

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid century teak closable locking teak writing desk called the "Magic Box", designed by Swiss Mummenthaler and Meier.

Category

Mid-20th Century Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

English Rosewood Box with Intricate Brass Motifs and Black Leather Writing Area

Sold

H 6.25 in W 16 in D 9.635 in

English Rosewood Box with Intricate Brass Motifs and Black Leather Writing Area

Located in Atlanta, GA

An English rosewood and brass slope desk box from the 19th century, with two locking keys, black leather writing desk, gilt trim and engraved with the name "Dickinson".

Category

Antique 19th Century English Decorative Boxes

Materials

Brass

Late 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Pine Secretary Desk

Sold

H 40.56 in W 40.95 in D 16.93 in

Late 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Pine Secretary Desk

Located in Kramfors, SE

Old locks and key, please observe there is only one key. The lock to the writing desk is functional. The paint has some distress and marks of wear.

Category

Antique Late 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Secretaires

Materials

Pine

Swedish Grace Cabinet or Sideboard in the Style of Axel Larsson in Stained Birch

Sold

H 43.31 in W 49.22 in D 13.39 in

Swedish Grace Cabinet or Sideboard in the Style of Axel Larsson in Stained Birch

By Axel Larsson

Located in Kramfors, SE

There is a small discolouration on the table top - see pictures. The lock to the writing desk has most likely been replaced.

Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Cabinets

Materials

Birch

Antique Writing Desk or Table with Lock and Key

Sold

H 31.5 in W 34 in D 19 in

Antique Writing Desk or Table with Lock and Key

Located in Stamford, CT

Lovely antique table, from published home in Architectural Digest designed by Jeffrey Bilhiber. Writing table has beautiful warm honeyed patina, tapered legs and original lock and ke...

Category

20th Century European Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Danish Modern Floating-Top Teak Executive Desk with Locking Bar

Sold

H 28.25 in W 56.5 in D 29 in

Danish Modern Floating-Top Teak Executive Desk with Locking Bar

Located in Sacramento, CA

1960s Danish modern teak executive desk with floating top and locking executive bar. The desk features six drawers (two locking), two open shelves, and a drop-down bar with lock.

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Teak

NATIONAL MT. AIRY Thomas Jefferson Mahogany Adaptable Drawing Writing Desk

Sold

H 32.25 in W 33 in D 22 in

NATIONAL MT. AIRY Thomas Jefferson Mahogany Adaptable Drawing Writing Desk

By National Furniture Company

Located in Charlotte, NC

Their version is similar, although shorter, to the original desk. Solid mahogany with brass hardware, faux keyhole escutcheon, brass locking pins to hold writing desk in place when ...

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Exposed Lock Single Drawer Table

Sold

H 34 in W 46 in D 30.5 in

Exposed Lock Single Drawer Table

Located in New Preston, CT

A lovely single drawer Brazilian table with exposed lock, great patina and wonderful detail.

Category

Antique 19th Century Brazilian Desks and Writing Tables

Rare Teak Mid Century Writing Desk

Sold

H 29 in W 63 in D 36 in

Rare Teak Mid Century Writing Desk

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Very clean and rare teak mid century writing desk. Two lock and key drawers on one side and a lock and key pull down drawer on the other side.

Materials

Teak

Louis Vuitton 'Malle Bureau' or Desk Trunk.

Sold

H 31.11 in W 39.38 in D 24.02 in

Louis Vuitton 'Malle Bureau' or Desk Trunk.

Located in London, GB

An extremely rare 1916 ‘Malle Bureau’ (desk trunk), the top opening to reveal the fitted interior with drawers, stationery compartments, central locking system and writing desk which...

Category

Early 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Italian Newly Lacquered in a Bronze Green & Black 1-Drawer Desk / Writing Table

Sold

H 31.25 in W 39.5 in D 23.5 in

Italian Newly Lacquered in a Bronze Green & Black 1-Drawer Desk / Writing Table

Located in Houston, TX

The one drawer has a brass lock. This very elegant desk / writing table was lacquered in a bronze green giving the piece a luxe yet natural hue that would fit in with a basic color t...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Midcentury Modern Brown Rosewood Desk, 20th Century, c 1960s, Lockable Drawers

Sold

H 28.75 in W 66.54 in D 32.29 in

Midcentury Modern Brown Rosewood Desk, 20th Century, c 1960s, Lockable Drawers

Located in Rochester, England

Beautifully constructed in rosewood, this large solid desk is a wonderful example of Mid-Century Modern design Offering plenty of storage options, the front of the desk has two se...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Midcentury Modern Brown Rosewood Desk, 20th Century, c 1960s, lockable drawers

Sold

H 28.75 in W 66.54 in D 32.29 in

Midcentury Modern Brown Rosewood Desk, 20th Century, c 1960s, lockable drawers

Located in Rochester, England

Beautifully constructed in rosewood, this large solid desk is a wonderful example of Mid-Century Modern design Offering plenty of storage options, the front of the desk has two sets...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Alma Mid Century Rosewood and Leather Executive Desk

$3,895

H 29.5 in W 78 in D 36 in

Alma Mid Century Rosewood and Leather Executive Desk

By Alma Desk Company

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Alma Mid Century Rosewood and Leather Executive Desk This desk measures: 78 wide x 36 deep x 29.5 high, with a chair clearance of 28 inches Fair Vintage Condition - Desk has Stain ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Leather, Rosewood

Danish Executive Desk in Rio Rosewood, Mid-Century Modern, c1950s

$6,500

H 32 in W 61 in D 32 in

Danish Executive Desk in Rio Rosewood, Mid-Century Modern, c1950s

Located in San Francisco, CA

Danish executive desk in richly grained Rio rosewood, made in the 1950s or 1960s. The front includes a central drawer and two cupboards with interior pull-out trays, all key-operated...

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Rosewood

Mid century danish modern teak desk with 3 drawers

$2,100Sale Price|25% Off

H 29 in W 49 in D 25 in

Mid century danish modern teak desk with 3 drawers

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid century danish modern teak desk with 3 drawers And lower brace. This danish desk has (2) upper drawers and (1) lower deep file drawer. The top has a beautiful teak wood grain wit...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Oak, Teak

18th Century George III Mahogany Bureau Desk. Slant Front Writing Secretary.

$1,330

H 38 in W 33 in D 20 in

18th Century George III Mahogany Bureau Desk. Slant Front Writing Secretary.

Located in Vero Beach, FL

18th Century George III Mahogany Bureau Desk. Slant Front Writing Secretary. This 18th century English bureau desk has 3 rows of graduated hand dovetailed drawers and is raised on 4...

Category

Antique 18th Century English George III Desks

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Danish Design Desk in Teak by Svend Aage Madsen, 1950s

$6,500

H 29.14 in W 29.53 in D 59.06 in

Midcentury Danish Design Desk in Teak by Svend Aage Madsen, 1950s

By Svend Åge Madsen

Located in Lejre, DK

Great looking desk in teak with cane details on the frame and the handles. Designed by Svend Aage Madsen. Made in Denmark in the 1950s. Nice original condition.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Cane, Teak

Danish Mid-Century Walnut Writing Desk with Three Drawers, 1950s

$5,900

H 29.5 in W 71 in D 29.5 in

Danish Mid-Century Walnut Writing Desk with Three Drawers, 1950s

Located in Houston, TX

The wide tabletop is presenting a fine walnut wood. Right beneath the top there is wide shelf. Three drawers are attached on either side. Each of the drawers has “bow” shaped handle....

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Walnut

Danish Mid-Century Freestanding Rosewood Desk by Clausen & Søn, 1960s.

$2,764

H 29.14 in W 55.52 in D 27.96 in

Danish Mid-Century Freestanding Rosewood Desk by Clausen & Søn, 1960s.

By Clausen & Søn

Located in Asaa, DK

Danish Mid-Century Freestanding Rosewood Desk by Clausen & Søn, 1960s. Stunning Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern executive desk attributed to Clausen & Søn due to the signature butte...

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

English Writing Desk or Table of Mahogany with Leather Top - Edwardian Era

$3,995

H 35 in W 36 in D 20 in

English Writing Desk or Table of Mahogany with Leather Top - Edwardian Era

Located in Austin, TX

A fine English writing table or desk of mahogany from the Edwardian era, featuring an inset leather top embossed with gilt edge, topped with a fitted, lidded stationery holder, over ...

Category

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Antique Victorian Twin Drawer Oak Writing Table Desk 19th Century

$1,855

H 29.53 in W 41.74 in D 29.53 in

Antique Victorian Twin Drawer Oak Writing Table Desk 19th Century

Located in London, GB

This gorgeous early Victorian antique writing table is crafted from beautiful solid oak and dates from Circa 1860. The rectangular top with rounded corners is fitted with the origi...

Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Vintage mid century modern exquisite Danish teak wood desk

$4,500

H 28.75 in W 54 in D 27 in

Vintage mid century modern exquisite Danish teak wood desk

Located in Phoenix, AZ

1960s Danish teak wood desk. Excellent mid century modern floating style with sculptural legs and handles. Features three drawers on the right and a filing drawer on the left. There ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Teak

Scandinavian Danish desk in teak

$3,328

H 28.75 in W 66.93 in D 32.49 in

Scandinavian Danish desk in teak

By Arne Vodder

Located in Ternay, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Danish desk from the 60s in the taste of Arne Vodder's work. Structure in solid wood and veneer. This Scandinavian desk features two columns of drawers suspended from the front and b...

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Peter Lovig Danish Modern Teak Sliding Top Desk

$1,160Sale Price|20% Off

H 29 in W 52 in D 27 in

Peter Lovig Danish Modern Teak Sliding Top Desk

By Lovig Dansk

Located in Esperance, NY

For sale is this very nice Danish Modern Teak desk with a sliding top. The desk was made by Peter Lovig

Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Teak

Rare 17th Century Tuscan desk or console with drawer

$3,949

H 34.06 in W 50.79 in D 22.05 in

Rare 17th Century Tuscan desk or console with drawer

Located in Jesteburg, DE

A beautiful desk, library table or console table possibly having been used as a writing desk. Great sculptural presence, works wonderfully in a contemporary or classic interior. I...

Category

Antique 17th Century Italian Baroque Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Teak Executive Desk with Inset Handles Danish Mid-Century Modern 1960s

$2,465

H 29.2 in W 53 in D 25.2 in

Teak Executive Desk with Inset Handles Danish Mid-Century Modern 1960s

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This double pedestal desk features eight side drawers and a wide central drawer. Tapered legs and recessed carved handles create an architectural profile. Danish Mid-Century Modern 1...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

George III Bureau Desk or Secretary Chest of Mahogany from the 18th Century

$6,895

H 44 in W 47 in D 23 in

George III Bureau Desk or Secretary Chest of Mahogany from the 18th Century

Located in Austin, TX

A fine George III slant top desk or bureau secretary chest of patinated mahogany, c.1770 - an inlaid slant front drops to reveal a series of small drawers and document compartments, ...

Category

Antique 18th Century English George III Secretaires

Materials

Metal, Brass

Mid Century Modern Rosewood Writing Desk Jean Gillon for Italma Made in Brazil

$4,500

H 29.875 in W 49.25 in D 31.5 in

Mid Century Modern Rosewood Writing Desk Jean Gillon for Italma Made in Brazil

By Jean Gillon, Italma Wood Art

Located in Detroit, MI

This vintage mid-century modern rosewood writing desk was designed by Jean Gillon for Italma Wood Art and made in Brazil circa 1960. The desk features a clean, minimalist design comb...

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

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Jens Risom Mid Century Walnut Executive Desk

$3,995

H 28.5 in W 62 in D 28 in

Jens Risom Mid Century Walnut Executive Desk

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Mid 18th Century Antique Brown Floral English Axminster Rug, 1760

$450,000

W 215 in L 358 in

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Located in New York, NY

Antique Brown Floral English Axminster Rug Made in Axminster, Devon, Great Britain, circa 1760 (George III) Provenance: Baron Guy de Rothschild 29' 10" x 17' 11" (909.32 x 546.10 cm)

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Contemporary U Concrete Pendant Lamp by Bentu Design

$200 / item

H 7.09 in Dm 3.78 in

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By Bentu Design

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Category

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$2,750 / set

H 21.07 in W 19.1 in D 14.57 in

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Located in Miami, FL

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Category

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$15,900 / item

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Category

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Located in Barcelona, ES

Cool Venetian style Hollywood Regency wall-mounted mirrored console table with iridiscent and mirror glass panels. Spain, 1960s This glamorous piece features a wall console with two ...

Category

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$25,000

H 16.5 in W 72 in D 36.75 in

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Located in Philadelphia, PA

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Located in Zürich, CH

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H 36 in W 80 in D 23 in

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Located in New York, NY

Amuneal's Blue Lacquer Bar Cabinet with Brass Countertop and Integral Sink features hand-polished lacquered cabinet doors and drawer faces inlayed with buffed brass and integral pull...

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Lockable Writing Desk For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic lockable writing desk available at 1stDibs. A lockable writing desk — often made from wood, hardwood and rosewood — can elevate any home. There are many kinds of the lockable writing desk you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. A lockable writing desk made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Georgian — is very popular. Collinson & Lock, Gillows of Lancaster & London and John Joseph Mechi each produced at least one beautiful lockable writing desk that is worth considering.

How Much is a Lockable Writing Desk?

Prices for a lockable writing desk start at $1,400 and top out at $27,942 with the average selling for $3,375.

Questions About Lockable 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 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 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 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.