How does a secretary desk work?

A secretary desk works with the help of hinges that secure the writing surface to the rest of the piece. To use one, you simply pull down on the wooden door to open the hinge and lower the writing surface. Return the desk to its closed position by lifting the writing surface up. You'll find a selection of secretary desks on 1stDibs.

What era are secretary desks from?

Secretary desks originated in the early 18th century. They were typically used by secretaries and clerks and featured plenty of compacted drawers for stationary storage. On 1stDibs, find a collection of secretary desks from some of the world’s top sellers.

Why are secretary desks called that?

A secretary desk is called by its name because of its original function. When the desks first emerged in 19th-century France, the secretaries of estates used them to conduct business. Once they finished paying bills and reconciling accounts, they could raise the hinged writing surface and close the desk. Secretary desks are the workstations of choice in many busy households, especially those with spaces pulling double duty as offices by day and living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms at night. On 1stDibs, shop an array of secretary desks.

How much is my antique secretary desk worth?

An antique secretary desk will range in value depending on its authenticity and condition. The price can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. On 1stDibs find the antique secretary desk you’re looking for today.

What watches were popular in 1950s?

Some popular watches for men during the 1950s were the Rolex Submariner, the Enicar Sherpa Dive, the Breitling Navitimer, Omega, Constellation and the Rolex GMT-Master. Rolex, Timex, Orvin, Tower and Elgin were among the top watchmakers for women during the decade. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches.

What was the clothing style in the 1950s?

The clothing style in the 1950s was well tailored and classic. For women, dresses with padded busts, cinched waists and hips, and full circle skirts were popular, and the collared button-up shirt dress came into fashion during the decade. Men tended to wear suits in neutral gray, dark blue and brown colors made out of easy-to-care-for synthetic fabrics. Straight-cut double-breasted blazers were commonly worn for casual occasions. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of vintage clothing from the 1950s.

Were pearls popular in the 1950s?

Yes. While the gem has always been a mainstay in jewelry, there was a boom in demand for pearl pieces in the 1950s. The style at the time was black-and-white-chic, and pearls were an excellent accompaniment to pieces like the classic little black dress. Shop a collection of expertly vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is 1950s furniture called?

1950s furniture is called vintage furniture. Some pieces produced during this period may be considered mid-century modern based on their characteristics. Mid-century modern design refers to the variety of modernism that rose to prominence in the 1940s and ’50s. It displays many of the characteristics of the earlier versions of modernism, including simple forms and a focus on functionality. Other traits common in mid-century modern furniture include unadorned silhouettes, clean lines and mixed materials, emphasizing wood, wool, steel and plastic. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of 1950s furniture.

How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?

In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.

What were the popular diamond cuts in the 1950s?

There were a few popular diamond cuts in the 1950s. One was the brilliant round cut, which is still common today due to its simple shape and prominent sparkle. Other favorite cuts of the decade included the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of engagement rings.

What is the 1950s furniture style called?

The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.

What diamond cuts were popular in the 1950s?

In the 1950s, several diamond cuts were popular. They included the brilliant round cut, the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. Rings that featured a large central stone flanked by smaller baguettes were also trendy during the decade. Find a collection of vintage diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.

Which artist became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s?

Frank Stella is the artist who became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These works featured bands of black paint separated by thin, precise stripes of bare canvas. At a time when contemporary painting was all about wild gestures, thick paint and formal abandon, the “Black Paintings” created a sensation. Explore a range of Frank Stella art on 1stDibs.

Secretary Desk 1950s

Wood Secretaries Desk

Mogensen Secretary

French Modern Secretaire

Mid Century Modern Drop Front Desk

Borge Mogensen Secretaire

Midcentury Modern Secretary

Vintage Secretaries

Italian Secretary

A rare wall-mounted secretary desk - 1950s French Reconstruction Style

$2,549

H 35.44 in W 27.17 in D 11.82 in

A rare wall-mounted secretary desk - 1950s French Reconstruction Style

By Roger Landault, Rene Gabriel, Pierre Guariche, Marcel Gascoin

Located in SOTTEVILLE-LÈS-ROUEN, FR

A rare 1950s wall-mounted secretary desk in the French Reconstruction style. Crafted from solid oak

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Oak

Italian Venetian Style Distressed Paint Decorated Secretary Desk C. 1950's

$3,195

H 78.25 in W 35.5 in D 16.25 in

Italian Venetian Style Distressed Paint Decorated Secretary Desk C. 1950's

Located in Swedesboro, NJ

Europe with this Italian Venetian style distressed paint-decorated secretary desk, crafted circa the

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Country Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Danish Modern Rosewood Secretary Desk by Toften c. 1950's

$5,130

H 44 in W 36 in D 18 in

Mid Century Danish Modern Rosewood Secretary Desk by Toften c. 1950's

By Mobelfabrikken Toften

Located in New York, NY

Stunning Mid Century Danish Modern secretary desk, executed in vibrant rosewood veneer. This

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks

Materials

Mirror, Rosewood

Mid-century Danish walnut roll top desk, dresser or secretary, circa 1950s

$1,900

H 42.25 in W 32 in D 19.75 in

Mid-century Danish walnut roll top desk, dresser or secretary, circa 1950s

Located in Long Island City, NY

Mid-century modern walnut desk, secretary or dresser. Made in Denmark, 1950s Roll top, 3 big

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Walnut Ash Desk Bureau Secretary, 1950s, Italy

$4,170

H 47.25 in W 47.05 in D 18.51 in

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Walnut Ash Desk Bureau Secretary, 1950s, Italy

Located in Vienna, AT

Mid-Century Modern vintage secretary desk bureau Ico Parisi style from walnut and ash veneers

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Ash, Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Gianfranco Frattini Secretary for Bernini, 1950s

$5,262

H 35.83 in W 21.66 in D 17.72 in

Mid-Century Modern Gianfranco Frattini Secretary for Bernini, 1950s

By Gianfranco Frattini

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Modern Gianfranco Frattini Secretary for Bernini, 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Wood

French Provincial Louis XV Lacquered Secretary Desk With Bookcase, 1950s

$2,595

H 71.25 in W 36 in D 16 in

French Provincial Louis XV Lacquered Secretary Desk With Bookcase, 1950s

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous French Provincial Louis XV style bureau with drop front secretary desk and bookcase

Category

Vintage 1950s American Louis XV Bookcases

Materials

Brass

1950s English Modern Bar Cabinet + Secretary Desk in Mahogany

$4,080

H 42.5 in W 54 in D 15 in

1950s English Modern Bar Cabinet + Secretary Desk in Mahogany

Located in Berkeley, CA

Origin: England Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Lebus Era: 1950s Materials: Mahogany, Glass

Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Mahogany

Børge Mogensen for Søborg Secretary Desk 1960s

$3,074Sale Price|20% Off

H 47.25 in W 39.38 in D 31.11 in

Børge Mogensen for Søborg Secretary Desk 1960s

By Børge Mogensen

Located in Handewitt, DE

Secretary desk / cabinet, designed in 1950s by Børge Mogensen for Søborg Møbelfabrik Denmark. Made

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Secretaires

Materials

Wood

Recent Sales

Italian Gilded and Hand Painted Wood Writing Desk Secretary, 1950s

Unavailable

H 38.59 in W 35.04 in D 18.12 in

Italian Gilded and Hand Painted Wood Writing Desk Secretary, 1950s

By Fornasetti

Located in Brussels, Ixelles

Rare midcentury Italian secretary set : hand decorated foldable writing desk with green lacquering

Category

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

Materials

Brass

1950s Danish Modern Teak Secretary Desk with Vanity Mirror

Unavailable

H 39 in W 33.5 in D 13.5 in

1950s Danish Modern Teak Secretary Desk with Vanity Mirror

Located in Sacramento, CA

1950s Danish modern teak secretary desk with fold-down mirror and extendable desk top. The desk has

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Secretaires

Materials

Teak

vintage secretary desk 1950s Swedish

Sold

H 42.52 in W 38.98 in D 17.72 in

vintage secretary desk 1950s Swedish

Located in Lemmer, NL

vintage secretary desk 1950s Swedish period 1950s design unknown Sweden condition good

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Oak, Teak

Dutch industrial metal secretary Gispen desk and chair 1950's

Sold

H 28.35 in W 39.38 in D 19.69 in

Dutch industrial metal secretary Gispen desk and chair 1950's

Located in bergen op zoom, NL

A sturdy metal secretary desk with black linoleum top by Gispen. The armchair (Galvanitas

Category

Vintage 1950s Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Raymond Lowey for Mengel Mid Century Secretary Desk c.1950’s

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H 47 in W 36.5 in D 20 in

Raymond Lowey for Mengel Mid Century Secretary Desk c.1950’s

By Raymond Loewy, Mengel Furniture Co.

Located in Lutz, FL

Mid Century Modern Mengel drop front secretary desk by designed by Raymond Loewy c.1950’s. Original

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Iron

Mid-Century Modern Secretary/ Desk, Italy, 1950s

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H 79.93 in W 29.53 in D 14.57 in

Mid-Century Modern Secretary/ Desk, Italy, 1950s

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Modern secretary/ desk, Italy, 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Wood

Biedermeier Secretary Desk, Western Europe, 1950s

Sold

H 44.49 in W 44.49 in D 20.48 in

Biedermeier Secretary Desk, Western Europe, 1950s

Located in Chorzów, PL

A secretary from the 1950s. Biedermeier style. Excellent condition Dimensions: height 113 cm

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Biedermeier Secretaires

Materials

Mahogany

French Bookcase and Secretary or desk, circa 1950s

Sold

H 59.85 in W 35.04 in D 11.42 in

French Bookcase and Secretary or desk, circa 1950s

Located in San Angelo, TX

secretary or desk. This is in good vintage condition with some imperfections due to the age and wear of the

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Oak

Danish Teak Secretary Desk & Book Case by Peter Hvidt, ca. 1950s

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H 66.75 in W 35.325 in D 18.75 in

Danish Teak Secretary Desk & Book Case by Peter Hvidt, ca. 1950s

Located in Peabody, MA

Two piece secretary desk and book case cabinet by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, for Soborg

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Secretaires

Materials

Teak

Antique High Gloss Secretary Desk, Scandinavia, circa 1950s, Restored

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H 85.83 in W 50.79 in D 27.17 in

Antique High Gloss Secretary Desk, Scandinavia, circa 1950s, Restored

Located in Chorzów, PL

ANTIQUE-UNIQUE. Impressive secretary from the mid-19th century in Biedermeier style. Antique

Category

Antique 1850s Scandinavian Biedermeier Secretaires

Materials

Mahogany

Rare + Sculptural Mid Century Italian Cabinet with Desk

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H 61.25 in W 39 in D 16.5 in

Rare + Sculptural Mid Century Italian Cabinet with Desk

Located in Chicago, IL

A stunning 1950s Italian secretary desk constructed with birch and walnut. This piece features a

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Wood

Paul McCobb Secretary Desk for Winchendon Furniture Company, circa 1950s

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H 46 in W 36 in D 17 in

Paul McCobb Secretary Desk for Winchendon Furniture Company, circa 1950s

By Paul McCobb, Planner Group

Located in Saint Louis, MO

design with common sense functionality and this 1950s Paul McCobb secretary desk designed for Winchendon

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Grasscloth, Birch

Mid-Century Modern Walnut Wall Unit Bookcase with Secretary Desk by Saginaw

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H 55 in W 43 in D 19 in

Mid-Century Modern Walnut Wall Unit Bookcase with Secretary Desk by Saginaw

By Saginaw

Located in South Bend, IN

secretary desk. By Saginaw Furniture USA, 1950s Sculpted walnut, with brass hardware and capped

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

1950s Danish Teak Guest Room Dresser Secretary Desk Time Worn Patina CabinModern

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H 47 in W 39.5 in D 18 in

1950s Danish Teak Guest Room Dresser Secretary Desk Time Worn Patina CabinModern

By Børge Mogensen

Located in Hyattsville, MD

wonderful character, 1950s. Unaltered in original condition and original finish.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Secretaires

Materials

Oak, Teak

A drop-front secretary desk - 1950 - France.

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H 47.64 in W 34.26 in D 14.57 in

A drop-front secretary desk - 1950 - France.

By Charlotte Perriand, Marcel Gascoin, Rene Gabriel

Located in SOTTEVILLE-LÈS-ROUEN, FR

A secretary desk from the 1950s, French craftsmanship. Solid elm wood with a beautiful patina

Category

Vintage 1950s French Secretaires

Materials

Elm

Vintage Davis Cabinet Co. Colonial Style American Pine Secretary Writing Desk

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H 30 in W 32.5 in D 20.5 in

Vintage Davis Cabinet Co. Colonial Style American Pine Secretary Writing Desk

By Davis Cabinet Company

Located in Dayton, OH

Davis Cabinet Company Secretary Desk, no 376 circa 1950s. Made from American pine with a lockable

Category

Mid-20th Century American Country Secretaires

Materials

Brass

Johannes Andersen Teak Secretary Dresser

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H 41.5 in W 41.5 in D 17.71 in

Johannes Andersen Teak Secretary Dresser

By Johannes Andersen

Located in San Diego, CA

This is an understated teak secretary desk constructed in the 1950's by Johannes Andersen . It is

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Teak

1950s Spanish Midcentury Bureau or Secretary Desk

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H 39.57 in W 33.08 in L 39.57 in

1950s Spanish Midcentury Bureau or Secretary Desk

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Midcentury secretary desk completely restored and renovated with blue-turquoise gradient paint on

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Beech, Paint

Organic Teak Secretary Desk, Danish Mid-Century Modern, 1950s

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H 50.01 in W 32.68 in D 16.54 in

Organic Teak Secretary Desk, Danish Mid-Century Modern, 1950s

Located in Berlin, DE

Multifunctional teak secretary desk. Rare Scandinavian design, 1950s. Organic shape, 3 drawers and

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Teak

Secretary desk Bramin , Danemark 1950’s

Sold

H 40.95 in W 39.38 in D 17.72 in

Secretary desk Bramin , Danemark 1950’s

By H.W. Klein

Located in PÉZENAS, FR

This beautiful high quality finished Danish compact writing desk cabinet is designed by H.W

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Secretaires

Materials

Teak

Rene Gabriel Secretary Desk in Oak, 1950s

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H 53.94 in W 31.5 in D 21.66 in

Rene Gabriel Secretary Desk in Oak, 1950s

By Rene Gabriel

Located in Castenray, NL

Very elegant secretary desk in oak, by the French designer Rene Gabriel, created in the1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s French Art Deco Secretaires

Materials

Oak

Roger Landault "Junior" Secretary Desk for ABC Furniture, French, 1950s

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H 48.04 in W 30.32 in D 14.97 in

Roger Landault "Junior" Secretary Desk for ABC Furniture, French, 1950s

By ABC Meubles 1, Roger Landault

Located in BEAUNE, FR

Vintage secretary desk of Roger Landault designed for ABC furniture in 1951. Model "junior" in

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Brass

Danish Teak Secretary Desk by Børge Mogensen for Søborg Møbelfabrik, 1950s

Sold

H 47.25 in W 39.38 in D 18.12 in

Danish Teak Secretary Desk by Børge Mogensen for Søborg Møbelfabrik, 1950s

By Børge Mogensen

Located in Middelfart, Fyn

Teak secretary desk designed by Børge Mogensen for Søborg Møbelfabrik, circa 1950. Danish design

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Teak

Danish Teak Atomic Secretary

Sold

H 44.25 in W 36.25 in D 24.5 in

Danish Teak Atomic Secretary

Located in New York, NY

Vintage 1950s Secretary Desk from Denmark This Vintage Secretary is in like new condition. With

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Secretaires

Secretary Desk in Studded Leather 1950s

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H 44.1 in W 23.63 in D 19.69 in

Secretary Desk in Studded Leather 1950s

Located in PÉZENAS, FR

secretary desk in studded leather from the 50s it is composed of a double flap, 2 drawers and 2

Category

Mid-20th Century French Secretaires

Materials

Brass

1950s Secretary Desk by Raymond Loewy for Mengel

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H 47.5 in W 36 in D 19 in

1950s Secretary Desk by Raymond Loewy for Mengel

By Raymond Loewy, Mengel Furniture Co.

Located in North Miami, FL

As handsome as it is practical, we've freshened this 1950s secretary desk by Raymond Loewy for

Category

Vintage 1950s American Secretaires

French Secretary Desk by Robert Charroy for Mobilor, 1950s

Sold

H 50.4 in W 33.08 in D 16.54 in

French Secretary Desk by Robert Charroy for Mobilor, 1950s

By Robert Charroy, Jacques Hitier

Located in Ghent, BE

French secretary desk often misattributed to Jacques Hitier, but designed by Robert Charroy for

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Steel

1950s Herman Miller George Nelson Secretary Desk Dresser Walnut

Sold

H 39.5 in W 40 in D 18.5 in

1950s Herman Miller George Nelson Secretary Desk Dresser Walnut

By George Nelson

Located in Tulsa, OK

the basic cabinet series, BCS. It features a top pull-out, drop-front desk, with cubby holes to inside

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Walnut

Børge Mogensen Teak Secretary

Sold

H 47 in W 39.5 in D 18 in

Børge Mogensen Teak Secretary

By Børge Mogensen

Located in New York, NY

Vintage 1950s Secretary Desk by Børge Mogensen This mid century secretary is in excellent

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Secretaires

Materials

Teak

Vintage Midcentury Walnut Bookcase by Saginaw

Sold

H 55 in W 43 in D 19 in

Vintage Midcentury Walnut Bookcase by Saginaw

Located in San Marcos, CA

front secretary desk. By Saginaw Furniture USA, 1950s Sculpted walnut, with brass hardware and capped

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Walnut

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Chunky cabinet by Axel Larsson for Bodafors, Sweden, 1930s

$7,094

H 39.38 in W 63 in D 17.72 in

Chunky cabinet by Axel Larsson for Bodafors, Sweden, 1930s

By SMF Svenska Möbelfabriken Bodafors, Axel Larsen

Located in Eskilstuna, SE

Big cabinet designed by Axel Larsson and produced by Bodafors, Sweden, during the 1930s. Chunky model made in birch with tons of storage and a writing desk.

Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Cabinets

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Brass

Hans-Agne Jakobsson 'Mini-Tratten' Verdigris Patinated Outdoor Sconce

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Hans-Agne Jakobsson 'Mini-Tratten' Verdigris Patinated Outdoor Sconce

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Pair of 70s Style Italian Bamboo and Brass Table Lamps

$5,000 / set

H 31 in Dm 20 in

Pair of 70s Style Italian Bamboo and Brass Table Lamps

Located in New York, NY

Monumental size Bamboo lamps. Crafted in Italy and made to order, these lamps are modern and chic. Production lead time 2-4 weeks. Base diameter 8 inches, hat diameter 20 inches, he...

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2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

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Pair of Constant Night Stands in Iroko Wood by Master Studio for Lemon

$6,314 / set

H 24.01 in Dm 13.78 in

Pair of Constant Night Stands in Iroko Wood by Master Studio for Lemon

By Lemon

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Neatly proportioned with exceptional detailing, the constant nightstand is your perfect bedside partner. In our furniture making, the IDEA is to create special pieces that you can bu...

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2010s South African Minimalist Pedestals

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Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Set with Table, Bench, Set of Chairs

$6,450 / set

H 32.88 in W 78.75 in D 63.19 in

Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Set with Table, Bench, Set of Chairs

By Rainer Daumiller

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Dining room set consisting of a dining table, bench, and pair of chairs, solid beech, Scandinavia, 1980s This expansive dining room set is a rare find, distinguished by its exceptio...

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Osvaldo Borsani wall-mounted wood and brass desk model E22 by Tecno Italy, 1950s

$6,195

H 9.06 in W 82.68 in D 21.66 in

Osvaldo Borsani wall-mounted wood and brass desk model E22 by Tecno Italy, 1950s

By Tecno, Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

A wall-mounted desk in wood, metal, and brass, part of the E22 series, produced by Tecno, designed by Osvaldo Borsani, 1950s A wall-mounted piece of furniture, free from floor suppo...

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Mid-Century Teak Sofa Bed with Storage Headboard, 1960s Design

$2,450

H 29.625 in W 76 in D 33.625 in

Mid-Century Teak Sofa Bed with Storage Headboard, 1960s Design

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A versatile and functional example of Mid-Century design, this teak sofa bed offers both comfortable seating and convenient storage. Complete with a matching, detached headboard feat...

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Cascade Wall Desk

$5,200

H 62 in W 28 in D 24 in

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By Bourgeois Boheme Atelier

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Parchment, Brass and Glass Table Lamp by Diego Mardegan for Glustin Luminaires

$7,697 / item

H 39.38 in W 9.85 in D 31.5 in

Parchment, Brass and Glass Table Lamp by Diego Mardegan for Glustin Luminaires

By Diego Mardegan

Located in Saint-Ouen, IDF

Ventola table lamp by the artist Diego Mardegan exclusively for Glustin Luminaires. Beautiful two ways shade made of a brass structure, parchemin paper and waxed fabric hold by an...

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Custom Round Mohair Velvet Ottoman with Oak Feet

$2,034 / item

H 15.75 in Dm 21.66 in

Custom Round Mohair Velvet Ottoman with Oak Feet

Located in London, England

Dagmar Design - Round Ottoman Custom-made ottoman developed & produced at our workshops in London using the highest quality materials. These examples are upholstered in a mustar...

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Osvaldo Borsani anodized aluminum, wood, and Resinflex E60 bookshelf Italy 1950s

$6,858

H 77.96 in W 32.68 in D 12.21 in

Osvaldo Borsani anodized aluminum, wood, and Resinflex E60 bookshelf Italy 1950s

By Osvaldo Borsani, Tecno

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

The E60 bookshelf, crafted from anodized aluminum, wood, and Resinflex, is a distinguished model designed by the renowned Osvaldo Borsani and produced by Tecno in the 1950s. Minimal...

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Silvio Coppola for Bernini Geometric Sideboard in Walnut

$6,450

H 48.63 in W 96.26 in D 20.67 in

Silvio Coppola for Bernini Geometric Sideboard in Walnut

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Embrace the timeless charm of this Classic Venetian Style Italian Polychrome Lacquered Hand-Painted two parts Bookcase, a piece of furniture that exudes both artistry and history. Th...

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Chinoiserie Black Lacquered Drop Front Secretary Desk With Bookcase Hutch

$2,395

H 88.38 in W 43 in D 21 in

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By Jasper Furniture Company

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A gorgeous Georgian Chinoiserie style bureau with drop front secretary desk and bookcase hutch top In the manner of Jasper Furniture Company USA, Late 20th Century Black lacquered...

Category

Late 20th Century American Chinoiserie Secretaires

Materials

Brass

Wooden armchairs by Studio Glustin

$11,080 / set

H 29.14 in W 35.44 in D 29.93 in

Wooden armchairs by Studio Glustin

By Glustin Creation

Located in Saint-Ouen (PARIS), FR

Superb pair of armchairs in beech wood upholstered with a bouclette fabric. Creation by Studio Glustin. France, 2023

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Fabric, Beech

Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets Under $3,000

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Secretary Desk 1950s For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of secretary desk 1950s is available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, metal and hardwood, all secretary desk 1950s available were constructed with great care. Secretary desk 1950s have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 20th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 20th Century. Secretary desk 1950s are generally popular furniture pieces, but Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Louis XV styles are often sought at 1stDibs. Børge Mogensen, Gianfranco Frattini and Paul McCobb each produced beautiful secretary desk 1950s that are worth considering.

How Much are Secretary Desk 1950s?

Secretary desk 1950s can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $2,898, while the lowest priced sells for $991 and the highest can go for as much as $20,143.

Finding the Right Case Pieces And Storage Cabinets for You

Of all the vintage storage cabinets and antique case pieces that have become popular in modern interiors over the years, dressers, credenzas and cabinets have long been home staples, perfect for routine storage or protection of personal items.

In the mid-19th century, cabinetmakers would mimic styles originating in the Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI eras for their dressers, bookshelves and other structures, and, later, simpler, streamlined wood designs allowed these “case pieces” or “case goods” — any furnishing that is unupholstered and has some semblance of a storage component — to blend into the background of any interior.

Mid-century modern furniture enthusiasts will cite the tall modular wall units crafted in teak and other sought-after woods of the era by the likes of George Nelson, Poul Cadovius and Finn Juhl. For these highly customizable furnishings, designers of the day delivered an alternative to big, heavy bookcases by considering the use of space — and, in particular, walls — in new and innovative ways. Mid-century modern credenzas, which, long and low, evolved from tables that were built as early as the 14th century in Italy, typically have no legs or very short legs and have grown in popularity as an alluring storage option over time.

Although the name immediately invokes images of clothing, dressers were initially created in Europe for a much different purpose. This furnishing was initially a flat-surfaced, low-profile side table equipped with a few drawers — a common fixture used to dress and prepare meats in English kitchens throughout the Tudor period. The drawers served as perfect utensil storage. It wasn’t until the design made its way to North America that it became enlarged and equipped with enough space to hold clothing and cosmetics. The very history of case pieces is a testament to their versatility and well-earned place in any room.

In the spirit of positioning your case goods center stage, decluttering can now be design-minded.

A contemporary case piece with open shelving and painted wood details can prove functional as a storage unit as easily as it can a room divider. Alternatively, apothecary cabinets are charming case goods similar in size to early dressers or commodes but with uniquely sized shelving and (often numerous) drawers.

Whether you’re seeking a playful sideboard that features colored glass and metal details, an antique Italian hand-carved storage cabinet or a glass-door vitrine to store and show off your collectibles, there are options for you on 1stDibs.

Questions About Secretary Desk 1950s

How does a secretary desk work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A secretary desk works with the help of hinges that secure the writing surface to the rest of the piece. To use one, you simply pull down on the wooden door to open the hinge and lower the writing surface. Return the desk to its closed position by lifting the writing surface up. You'll find a selection of secretary desks on 1stDibs.
What era are secretary desks from?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Secretary desks originated in the early 18th century. They were typically used by secretaries and clerks and featured plenty of compacted drawers for stationary storage. On 1stDibs, find a collection of secretary desks from some of the world’s top sellers.
Why are secretary desks called that?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
A secretary desk is called by its name because of its original function. When the desks first emerged in 19th-century France, the secretaries of estates used them to conduct business. Once they finished paying bills and reconciling accounts, they could raise the hinged writing surface and close the desk. Secretary desks are the workstations of choice in many busy households, especially those with spaces pulling double duty as offices by day and living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms at night. On 1stDibs, shop an array of secretary desks.
How much is my antique secretary desk worth?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
An antique secretary desk will range in value depending on its authenticity and condition. The price can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. On 1stDibs find the antique secretary desk you’re looking for today.
What watches were popular in 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
Some popular watches for men during the 1950s were the Rolex Submariner, the Enicar Sherpa Dive, the Breitling Navitimer, Omega, Constellation and the Rolex GMT-Master. Rolex, Timex, Orvin, Tower and Elgin were among the top watchmakers for women during the decade. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches.
What was the clothing style in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
The clothing style in the 1950s was well tailored and classic. For women, dresses with padded busts, cinched waists and hips, and full circle skirts were popular, and the collared button-up shirt dress came into fashion during the decade. Men tended to wear suits in neutral gray, dark blue and brown colors made out of easy-to-care-for synthetic fabrics. Straight-cut double-breasted blazers were commonly worn for casual occasions. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of vintage clothing from the 1950s.
Were pearls popular in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes. While the gem has always been a mainstay in jewelry, there was a boom in demand for pearl pieces in the 1950s. The style at the time was black-and-white-chic, and pearls were an excellent accompaniment to pieces like the classic little black dress. Shop a collection of expertly vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is 1950s furniture called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
1950s furniture is called vintage furniture. Some pieces produced during this period may be considered mid-century modern based on their characteristics. Mid-century modern design refers to the variety of modernism that rose to prominence in the 1940s and ’50s. It displays many of the characteristics of the earlier versions of modernism, including simple forms and a focus on functionality. Other traits common in mid-century modern furniture include unadorned silhouettes, clean lines and mixed materials, emphasizing wood, wool, steel and plastic. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of 1950s furniture.
How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.
What were the popular diamond cuts in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
There were a few popular diamond cuts in the 1950s. One was the brilliant round cut, which is still common today due to its simple shape and prominent sparkle. Other favorite cuts of the decade included the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of engagement rings.
What is the 1950s furniture style called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.
What diamond cuts were popular in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
In the 1950s, several diamond cuts were popular. They included the brilliant round cut, the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. Rings that featured a large central stone flanked by smaller baguettes were also trendy during the decade. Find a collection of vintage diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Which artist became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
Frank Stella is the artist who became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These works featured bands of black paint separated by thin, precise stripes of bare canvas. At a time when contemporary painting was all about wild gestures, thick paint and formal abandon, the “Black Paintings” created a sensation. Explore a range of Frank Stella art on 1stDibs.

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