Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

MID-CENTURY MODERN STYLE

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Style: Mid-Century Modern

Guillerme & Chambron Writing Desk in Solid Oak and Black Leather

$9,400

Guillerme & Chambron Writing Desk in Solid Oak and Black Leather

By Guillerme et Chambron, Votre Maison

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Guillerme et Chambron for Votre Maison, writing desk, oak, leather, France, 1960s. This desk is designed by the renowned French duo Guillerme et Chambron. This design holds an utter...

Category

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

Materials

Leather, Oak

1950s Axel Einar Hjorth Style Oak Writing Desk

$2,250

1950s Axel Einar Hjorth Style Oak Writing Desk

By Axel Einar Hjorth

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Mid-Century writing desk in solid oak, designed in the style of Swedish architect and designer Axel Einar Hjorth. The wide rectangular top features softly rounded edges/ On the left,...

Category

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

Materials

Oak

Midcentury Bamboo, Rattan & Glass Desk Writing Table Dal Vera Style, Italy 1970s

$3,320

Midcentury Bamboo, Rattan & Glass Desk Writing Table Dal Vera Style, Italy 1970s

By Vivai del Sud, Dal Vera

Located in Rome, IT

Midcentury beautiful desk writing table with two drawers in bamboo, rattan, top glass and brass handles in the style of Dal Vera. Made in Italy in the 1970s.

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Brass

Mid-Century Modern Italian Desk with Return in Wood with Turquoise Top

$13,800 / set

Mid-Century Modern Italian Desk with Return in Wood with Turquoise Top

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Attributed to Gustavo & Vito Latis, desk with a return, mahogany, maple, formica, Italy, circa 1960 Made in Italy, this writing desk with return is a testament to the design eth...

Category

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

Materials

Formica, Mahogany, Maple

1950s Coen de Vries Style Desk, Birch, Beige Enameled Tubular Metal

$695

1950s Coen de Vries Style Desk, Birch, Beige Enameled Tubular Metal

By Coen de Vries

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Compact desk attributed to the style of Coen de Vries combines birch construction with a beige enameled tubular metal frame. Three drawers with turned wooden knobs occupy an asymmetr...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

George Nakashima 'Conoid' Writing Desk in American Black Walnut

$107,000

George Nakashima 'Conoid' Writing Desk in American Black Walnut

Located in Waalwijk, NL

George Nakashima for George Nakashima Studio, 'Conoid' cross-legged desk, American black walnut, hickory, United States, 1986 This Conoid desk by George Nakashima, made custom in 1...

Category

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

Materials

Hickory, Walnut

Giuseppe Pagano Pogatschnig Italian Dark Wood Desk for Gino Maggioni, 1940s

$2,775

Giuseppe Pagano Pogatschnig Italian Dark Wood Desk for Gino Maggioni, 1940s

By Giuseppe Pagano Pogatschnig, Gino Maggioni

Located in Reggio Emilia, IT

Italian midcentury modern design small writing desk wwith side chest of drawers in dark stained wood and metal designed by Giuseppe Pagano Pogatschnig for Gino Maggioni, Milan, produ...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Vintage Mid-century Brutalist Danmark Oak Desk, Style of Henning Kjærnulf

$2,656

Vintage Mid-century Brutalist Danmark Oak Desk, Style of Henning Kjærnulf

By Henning Kjærnulf

Located in Store Heddinge, DK

A freestanding brutalist desk attributed to Danish designer Henning Kjærnulf, made in Denmark circa 1960. Built from oak with veneered oak on the top and side panels. The warm grain ...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Drop Front Secretary Desk by Raymond Loewy for Mengel

$3,600

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Drop Front Secretary Desk by Raymond Loewy for Mengel

By Raymond Loewy

Located in Palm Springs, CA

1950’s Mid-Century modern oak drop front secretary desk by Raymond Loewy for Mengel The outside oak was replaced, the interior is original condition, shows some wear consistent with...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

940s Dutch Piet Zwart for Bruynzeel Attributed Writing Desk

$625

940s Dutch Piet Zwart for Bruynzeel Attributed Writing Desk

By Piet Zwart, Bruynzeel

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Compact Dutch writing desk attributed to Piet Zwart for Bruynzeel, dating to the 1940s. The solid oak frame is finished in a warm golden tone with f...

Category

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

Materials

Laminate, Oak

Friso Kramer 'Reiger' Drafting Table for Ahrend de Cirkel, 1963

$1,495

Friso Kramer 'Reiger' Drafting Table for Ahrend de Cirkel, 1963

By Ahrend de Cirkel, Friso Kramer

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Rare 'Reiger' drafting table designed by Friso Kramer for Dutch manufacturer Ahrend de Cirkel in 1963. The name translates to 'Heron,' a reference to the table's tall, lean silhouett...

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Enamel

George Nakashima Double Pedestal Desk with Live-Edge Top

$127,000

George Nakashima Double Pedestal Desk with Live-Edge Top

By George Nakashima Studio, George Nakashima

Located in Waalwijk, NL

George Nakashima for George Nakashima Studio, Double Pedestal Free-Edge writing desk, American black walnut, United States, 1969 You have encountered a truly outstanding example of ...

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno ‘T96’ Executive Corner Desk in Black Lacquered Wood

$18,700

Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno ‘T96’ Executive Corner Desk in Black Lacquered Wood

By Osvaldo Borsani, Tecno

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno, executive desk, model ‘T96’, lacquered wood, steel, chromed metal, Italy, design 1956, produced 1958 This ‘T96’ executive desk is designed by Osvaldo Bor...

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome, Metal

Elegant Italian Small Desk in Ash

$1,675

Elegant Italian Small Desk in Ash

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Writing desk, ash, brass, formica, Italy, 1950s Very elegant desk made in Italy in the 1950s. The framework is executed in ash. The upper part of this piece is made from ash veneer,...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

French Designer, Partners Desk, Oak, France, 1940s

$18,500

French Designer, Partners Desk, Oak, France, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A large oak desk or partners desk designed and produced in France, c. 1940s. Wear consistent with age and use, including some natural wood cracking and patina buildup. Missing smal...

Category

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

Materials

Oak

Warren Platner for Knoll Writing Desk in Oak and Black Leather

$7,750

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, 1970s. This writing table with two drawers and an extendable panel was designed by W...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

$2,250

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Denton, TX

Strong bold design by John Van Koert for Drexel furniture. A combination of walnut and oak makes this desk a stunning vintage piece of art. The writing surface is 30.25" high.

Category

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

Materials

Leather, Oak, Walnut

Pierre Jeanneret - Authentic PJ-TAT-08-B

$201,623

Pierre Jeanneret - Authentic PJ-TAT-08-B

By Pierre Jeanneret

Located in Hasselt, VLI

Teak Library Table circa 1955–56 by Pierre Jeanneret - model PJ-TAT-08-B This model was produced in several variants and dimensions for Chandigarh’s public institutions. The detacha...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century Rosewood Floating Top Executive Desk by Fristho

$2,950

Mid-Century Rosewood Floating Top Executive Desk by Fristho

By Fristho, Kho Liang Ie

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Executive desk by Fristho features a commanding floating rosewood top suspended 2.5 inches above dual cabinet bases. White lacquered supports create dramatic visual separation betwee...

Category

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

Materials

Leather, Rosewood, Lacquer

Vintage Art Deco Mahogany Writing Desk, Danish Mid-Century Modern, 1950s

$4,458

Vintage Art Deco Mahogany Writing Desk, Danish Mid-Century Modern, 1950s

Located in Store Heddinge, DK

A calm and solid piece that holds its space with ease. The Mahogany desk is made in the 1950s Denmark and is in very good condition. The surface shows light signs of use, and overall...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Teak Desk with Floating Top attr to WeBe

$2,450

Mid-Century Teak Desk with Floating Top attr to WeBe

By WéBé

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Mid-century teak executive desk with floating top. Beautiful full tea desk with dark wood edge accents and double stacked drawers with carved handles. A large top with curved edges o...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Desk Smoked Glass President Gallotti e Radice Dattilo Model Midcentury Italy 70s

$3,202

Desk Smoked Glass President Gallotti e Radice Dattilo Model Midcentury Italy 70s

By Gallotti & Radice

Located in Palermo, IT

GALLOTTI E RADICE Produced by Gallotti e Radice, Italy, ca. 1971. President desk, "Dattilo" model, chromed brass frame, rectangular top and sides in smoked glass. Please note that th...

Category

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

Materials

Crystal, Chrome

Studio BBPR for Olivetti Small 'Spazio' Desk with Drawers

$2,200

Studio BBPR for Olivetti Small 'Spazio' Desk with Drawers

By Studio BBPR, Olivetti

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Studio BBPR for Olivetti, 'Spazio' desk with drawers, steel, vinyl, plastic, Italy, design 1959/60, production 1960s In 1954, Olivetti, the Italian office equipment manufacturer, h...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Unique Italian Duo Desk in Walnut with Marquetry

$12,700

Unique Italian Duo Desk in Walnut with Marquetry

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Double desk, walnut, Italy, 1950s This custom-made desk, designed for two people, combines functionality with elegant craftsmanship. The L-shaped tabletop allows simultaneous use by...

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Late 19th Century French Barley Twist Writing Desk

$2,905

Late 19th Century French Barley Twist Writing Desk

Located in Nürnberg, Bayern

Late 19th Century French Barley Twist Writing Desk

Category

1880s French Antique Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Birdseye Maple

André Sornay Rare Writing Desk with Movable Cabinets in Mahogany

$12,800

André Sornay Rare Writing Desk with Movable Cabinets in Mahogany

Located in Waalwijk, NL

André Sornay for Meubles Sornay, writing desk with pair of cabinets, mahogany, lacquered wood, France, 1950s/1960s This rare office ensemble consisting of a desk and matching mobile...

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Mahogany

1960s Mid-Century Italian Walnut Rattan and Black Glass Top Writing Desk Table

$1,897

1960s Mid-Century Italian Walnut Rattan and Black Glass Top Writing Desk Table

Located in Carimate, Como

Beautiful Italian Mid-Century Modern desk writing table, in wood with elegant rattan wicker bamboo frame, decorated legs and black glass top. The unique and typical design, with the ...

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood, Bamboo, Rattan

Guillerme & Chambron Corner Desk in Oak and Black Stone

$21,700

Guillerme & Chambron Corner Desk in Oak and Black Stone

By Guillerme et Chambron

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Guillerme et Chambron for Votre Maison, corner writing desk, oak, stone, France, 1960s A design by Guillerme et Chambron, featuring a corner desk crafted primarily from oak. The des...

Category

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

Materials

Stone

Mid-Century Modern Desk, Beech & Walnut with Yellow Glass Top, 1950s

$3,913

Mid-Century Modern Desk, Beech & Walnut with Yellow Glass Top, 1950s

Located in Albano Laziale, Rome/Lazio

A beautifully restored mid-century modern desk that combines timeless charm with everyday functionality. The original high-gloss piano black top contrasts elegantly with the oiled ma...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Enzo Testa, Desk, Pine, Wood, Italy, 1968

$7,400

Enzo Testa, Desk, Pine, Wood, Italy, 1968

Located in High Point, NC

A pine and wood desk designed and produced by Enzo Testa for a residential commission, Bergamo, Italy, c. 1968. Minimal signs of wear. Top refinished. Overall Dimensions (inches): ...

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Pine

Arne Wahl Iversen Executive Rosewood Writing Desk by Vinde Denmark

$4,800

Arne Wahl Iversen Executive Rosewood Writing Desk by Vinde Denmark

By Arne Wahl Iversen

Located in Cincinnati, OH

An exceptionally elegant Mid Century Brazilian rosewood executive writing desk with two drawers to each side and a middle pencil drawer with brass keyhole including the original key....

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Mid-Century Willy van der Meeren Writing Desk for Tubax, Enameled Metal Frame

$950 / item

Mid-Century Willy van der Meeren Writing Desk for Tubax, Enameled Metal Frame

By Willy Van Der Meeren

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Belgian Mid-Century mini Willy Van Der Meeren Industrial desks for Tubax. Willy van der Meeren, a groundbreaking giant in post-war Belgian design, designed this compact writing desk...

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Enamel, Steel

Silvio Cavatorta Writing Desk in Mahogany

$22,000

Silvio Cavatorta Writing Desk in Mahogany

By Silvio Cavatorta

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Silvio Cavatorta, writing desk, mahogany, brass, Italy, design 1948-1949 This elegantly shaped mahogany office table, designed by Silvio Cavatorta in the late 1940s, is a testament ...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Franco Albini Desk or Console Table in Bamboo, Rattan and Wicker, Italy, 1950s

$2,670

Franco Albini Desk or Console Table in Bamboo, Rattan and Wicker, Italy, 1950s

By Franco Albini and Franca Helg

Located in Roma, IT

Wonderful and unique French Riviera style writing desk in bamboo, hand-woven rattan and wicker. This stylish organic desk was produced in Italy during the 1950s and is attributed to ...

Category

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

Materials

Bamboo, Wicker, Cane, Rattan

Original 1950s Wim Rietveld Friso Kramer Articulating Drafting Table Desk Patina

$1,800

Original 1950s Wim Rietveld Friso Kramer Articulating Drafting Table Desk Patina

By Wim Rietveld

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

Rare Wim Rietveld 'Reply' articulating drafting table. The hinging mechanism was a collaborative design with Wim Rietveld and Friso Kramer for Ahrend de Cirkel in 1958. Adjustable at...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Mid-Century Modern Minimalist Teak Desk from Asko Finland, 1960s

$4,151

Mid-Century Modern Minimalist Teak Desk from Asko Finland, 1960s

By Asko

Located in Hamburg, DE

A very rare desk from Finnish manufacturer Asko. A minimalist design that impresses with its clean lines. The rectangular tabletop is veneered in teak. The simple legs are set off i...

Category

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

Materials

Teak, Walnut

Mid-Century Executive Desk by Friso Kramer & Coen de Vries, 1950s

$2,450

Mid-Century Executive Desk by Friso Kramer & Coen de Vries, 1950s

By Coen de Vries, EEKA, Friso Kramer

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A striking example of Dutch mid-century modern design, this executive desk was designed by Friso Kramer and Coen de Vries for EEKA (Eindhovense Eisen- en Kantoorartikelenfabriek) in ...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Mid century Paul McCobb #1560 Double Drawer Desk Black Lacquer with chair

$2,200

Mid century Paul McCobb #1560 Double Drawer Desk Black Lacquer with chair

By Planner Group, Paul McCobb

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Beautiful vintage Paul McCobb planner group #1560 double drawer desk original Black Lacquer finish on maple with brass knobs. All solid maple wood. Desk is in great vintage condition...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Ole Wanscher Writing Desk of Mahogany by Cabinetmaker A. J. Iversen Denmark 1950

$6,523

Ole Wanscher Writing Desk of Mahogany by Cabinetmaker A. J. Iversen Denmark 1950

By A. J. Iversen, Ole Wanscher

Located in Silkeborg, Silkeborg

Free standing writing desk with 5 drawers designed by Ole Wanscher (1903-1985). The desk is made of lacquered mahogany with inside frame of oak. The handles are made of solid brass ...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Peter Løvig Nielsen Rosewood Partners Desk

$7,500

Peter Løvig Nielsen Rosewood Partners Desk

By Peter Løvig Nielsen

Located in New York, NY

Amazing 1970's Peter Løvig Nielsen rosewood partners desk, lightly restored with some wear and patina due to age and use, there is some we...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Large Desk, Veneered Wood, Chrome-Plated Steel, Germany, ca. 1960

$8,064

Mid-Century Large Desk, Veneered Wood, Chrome-Plated Steel, Germany, ca. 1960

Located in Berlin, DE

Large Mid-Century executive desk made of veneered wood and chrome-plated steel. The architectural, linear structure conveys a sense of lightness, stability, and order. The top is fin...

Category

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

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Modular Desk Set with White Glass Top by Mojmir Pozar, 1960s, Set of 3

$1,518 / set

Modular Desk Set with White Glass Top by Mojmir Pozar, 1960s, Set of 3

By M. Požár

Located in Żory, PL

This vintage furniture set was designed by Mojmir Pozar and produced in the 1960s in the Czech Republic. The set consists of three elements: - smaller cabinet: 40x42x60cm - larger ca...

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

20th Century, Big Desk in Wood with Cloth-Covered Top Attributed Ico Parisi, 60s

$23,720

20th Century, Big Desk in Wood with Cloth-Covered Top Attributed Ico Parisi, 60s

By Ico Parisi

Located in Turin, Turin

Ico Parisi was born in Palermo, Italy, in 1916, but as early as 1925 with his family he moved to Como, where in 1936 he graduated as a building surveyor and served an apprenticeship ...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Guillerme & Chambron Corner Desk in Dark Oak and Black Stone

$13,800

Guillerme & Chambron Corner Desk in Dark Oak and Black Stone

By Guillerme et Chambron, Votre Maison

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Guillerme et Chambron for Votre Maison, corner writing desk, oak, stone, France, 1960s A design by Guillerme et Chambron, featuring a corner desk crafted primarily from dark stained...

Category

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

Materials

Stone

Osvaldo Borsani T96 Executive Desk for Tecno, Italy, 1956

$15,892

Osvaldo Borsani T96 Executive Desk for Tecno, Italy, 1956

By Tecno, Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

The T96 is an executive desk that organises its architecture around two chromed pylons and a boomerang-shaped top, pushed out at each end into obtuse angles that open the desk toward...

Category

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

Materials

Aluminum

Modern Menir Travertine, Oak Console Table, Handmade by Greenapple

$6,853Sale Price / item|25% Off

Modern Menir Travertine, Oak Console Table, Handmade by Greenapple

By Rute Martins, Greenapple

Located in Lisboa, PT

Modern Menir stone Console Table, Contemporary Collection, Handcrafted in Portugal - Europe by Greenapple. The Menir stone console table draws inspiration from the standing stones o...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Onyx, Quartz, Travertine, Marble, Carrara Marble

Carlo De Carli Sculptural Writing Desk in Walnut, Italy, 1950s

$23,601

Carlo De Carli Sculptural Writing Desk in Walnut, Italy, 1950s

By Carlo di Carli

Located in Brescia, Brescia

A rare and highly sculptural desk by Carlo De Carli, where structure and form resolve into a single, continuous gesture. The top extends into sharp, blade-like points, while the apr...

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Dudouyt Double-Side Desk, France, 1940's

$17,500

Dudouyt Double-Side Desk, France, 1940's

By Charles Dudouyt

Located in New York, NY

Dudouyt double side desk, meant to float in a room. The door conceals a set of drawers and the carved edge detail to the left side is a handle to pul...

Category

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

Materials

Wood

1960s vintage wooden desk and chair set Italian design

$660Sale Price|70% Off

1960s vintage wooden desk and chair set Italian design

Located in None, IT

Desk set with black metal frame, wooden top and drawers with gilt brass handles, black metal chair and curved wooden seat, design Carlo Ratti, 1960s. CONDITION: In good condition, s...

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Brass

Mid-Century Modern Desk / Console Table by UP Závody, 1960s

$1,518

Mid-Century Modern Desk / Console Table by UP Závody, 1960s

By Up Závody

Located in Żory, PL

Elegant mid-century modern desk that can also function as a console table. Produced in the 1960s by UP Závody in Bučovice, former Czechoslovakia. It features two drawers and a distin...

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Danish Modern Rosewood Desk by Riis Antonsen

$11,880Sale Price|20% Off

Danish Modern Rosewood Desk by Riis Antonsen

By Riis Antonsen

Located in Huntington, NY

Danish Modern Rosewood Desk by Riis Antonsen has 1 key The large dimensions Ideal for comfortable working surface. Desk well restored & ready for Use!

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Child desk by Alain Richard for T.F.M, France, circa 1970

$2,016

Child desk by Alain Richard for T.F.M, France, circa 1970

Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR

A rare child-sized version of the desk designed by Alain Richard, produced by T.F.M. and developed within the A.R.C. - Mobilier National programs. The white laminate panel structure...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Kurt Østervig Style Oak Coffee Table, Square Frame Base

$1,195

Mid-Century Kurt Østervig Style Oak Coffee Table, Square Frame Base

By Kurt Østervig

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Coffee table in the style of Danish designer Kurt Østervig showcases minimalist Scandinavian design principles. Constructed from solid oak with a rectangular top and distinctive squa...

Category

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

Materials

Oak

Alvar Aalto Writing Table Model K81 in Birch & Red Linoleum, Artek 1950s

$6,546

Alvar Aalto Writing Table Model K81 in Birch & Red Linoleum, Artek 1950s

By Artek, Alvar Aalto, Huonekalu-Ja Rakennustyötedas Oy

Located in Helsinki, FI

A rare Mid-Century Modern writing desk in full birch and red linoleum model K81 manufactured by Huonekalu- ja Rakennustyötehdas for Artek. The minimalist design of this table which w...

Category

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

Materials

Birch

Mid-Century MOD Jean Maneval Inspired Chunky White Desk with Rolling Storage

$1,650 / set

Mid-Century MOD Jean Maneval Inspired Chunky White Desk with Rolling Storage

By Jean Maneval

Located in Los Angeles, CA

MOD Jean Maneval inspired white laminate desk with a two drawer rolling storage cabinet. In original condition with visible wear, discoloration and...

Category

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

Materials

Fiberglass

Anglo-Indian Danish Modern Style Secretary Desk / Vanity by Hayat, Circa 1960s

$2,895 / item

Anglo-Indian Danish Modern Style Secretary Desk / Vanity by Hayat, Circa 1960s

By M. Hayat & Bros Ltd.

Located in Peabody, MA

A mid-century Anglo-Indian rosewood secretary desk / vanity by the world renowned M. Hayat firm of Peshawar, Pakistan. In a rare fusion of cultures, this bespoke desk of drawers was ...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Early Franco Albini for Knoll Model '80' Desk

$4,400

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 Albini’s model 80 desk combines glass, steel and wood which resu...

Category

1990s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

1960s Atomic Danish Secretary Desk in Teak

$2,940

1960s Atomic Danish Secretary Desk in Teak

Located in Berkeley, CA

Origin: Denmark Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1960s Materials: Teak Measurements: 35.5″ wide x 19″ deep x 46″ tall

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Mid-century Walnut Executive Desk by Jens Risom for Jen Risom Designs c.1950

$2,895Sale Price / item|49% Off

Mid-century Walnut Executive Desk by Jens Risom for Jen Risom Designs c.1950

By Jens Risom

Located in San Francisco, CA

ABOUT An original Jens Risom large executive desk constructed from solid Walnut and built for design and durability. The right side of the desk has three drawers and a pull-out tray...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni rosewood Rampa secretary desk Bernini Italy

$10,500

Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni rosewood Rampa secretary desk Bernini Italy

By Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Bernini

Located in Skokie, IL

Designed in 1965 by the legendary brothers Pier Giacomo and Achille Castiglioni, the "Rampa" unit is a masterclass in multidisciplinary design. Renowned for their ability to merge ar...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Mid-century Modern desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Mid-Century Modern desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage desks and writing tables created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include tables, case pieces and storage cabinets, seating and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Mid-Century Modern desks and writing tables made in a specific country, there are Europe, Italy, and North America pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original desks and writing tables, popular names associated with this style include Cassina, Lawson-Fenning, Charlotte Perriand, and Paul McCobb. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for desks and writing tables differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $299 and tops out at $184,000 while the average work can sell for $4,773.