19th Century Desks and Writing Tables

This workbench was made from oak in France. It was either used by a watchmaker or jeweler. It retained a very nice patina over the years.

A rare example of the Lambie & Sargent Utility Adjustable Table circa 1870's. The table is best described by the 1874 article entitled "A Useful Novelty; The Utility Adjustable Table from the Philadelphia Journal of Commerce & Scientific American: "One of the neatest, most convenient and ingenious contrivances lately brought to our notice is the UTILITY ADJUSTABLE TABLE, manufactured by Messrs Lambie Sargent & Co. of New York and for which Messrs J. C. Miller & Co., No 29 South Eighth Street are the general agents. It is an article especially adapted to the wants of every family; an ornamental and attractive piece of furniture, forming a combination of conveniences that till at once be readily recognized by all who appreciate domestic comforts. It is something entirely new, and the following description will clearly define its construction, utility and adjustability. The legs are fastened to the top by hinges folding inwardly; when adjusted as represented above, the table is supported by the braces which are attached at one end to the legs and at the other to the top. By means of a hinge-joint at the centre of each brace, and the hinges by which the top legs are joined, the table may be folded at pleasure, the legs resting flat against the under side of the top when folded. Each leg consists of an outer and inner section, the former sliding against the side of the latter. Between the two sections is a bowed spring, producing sufficient friction, preventing wear and rendering the table easy of adjustment. To raise the table from a low to a higher point it is only necessary to lift the top, and by means of a clevis on each leg, which springs into the notches cut in the legs, the table is held firmly at any desired height. By raising the top to its highest point, the clevises, which are self-acting, will reverse, and the table may be lowered without obstruction: when pressed to its lowest point, the clevises will again reverse and the table it left in a position to be folded or adjusted to any height, from twenty-two to twenty-eight inches. Drawers are arranged conveniently at each end, made to swing outwardly when desired and fastened when closed. A yard stick is attached underneath the top of the table, concealed when not in use, and detached at pleasure. The best materials are used and the most careful workmanship is bestowed in its construction. For the sick room or hospital is it particularly desirable, it possesses the double advantage of adjusting and folding, and when not in use can be packed away in any nook or corner; its height may be made to suit that of and bed and with one leg supporting its weight and the other folded, the top resting on the bed, it forms the most complete invalid’s table that can be imagined or desired As might be supposed, the demand for this useful article is already very great, and justly proportionate to its merits. The ladies particularly can not fail to appreciate it, as it combines so man advantages especially adapted to the necessities. For a handsome and useful present nothing could be more appropriate or more acceptable. We congratulate Messrs. Lambie, Sargent & Co., on being represented in this city by live, energetic and popular agents Messrs. J. C. Miller & Co. are well and favorably known to the business community and public generally, and will see that this handsome and useful article is introduced into every household. We cannot praise the Utility Adjustable Table too highly, and conclude by advising every lady, or man of family to call and be convinced that this handsome little household treasure is better than we have represented it." This table was manufactured by the Messrs, Lambie, Sargent & Co located at 793 Broadway Street in New York City. This company was well-known for its line on innovative invalid furniture...

This saw horse base and glass top makes a great dining, table, desk, writing or conference table. Use it in an industrial style setting, mid-century modern, farm house, or country s...

Minimal Wabi Sabi dining table or desk with remains of original paint, formerly possibly a work table. The top antique, but not original to ...

Rare 19th century English Industrial period davenport desk. Made from thick iron with bronze legs and campaign style handles on the drawers. The locking slant lid opens to reveal a l...

An adjustable lecturn in mahogany with black painted iron mounts and openwork book ends on the lower shelf. Raised on out swept black painted iron legs on casters. Made in New York a...

Signed J. Foot & Son, New Bond Street, London. Tiger oak veneer adjustable work top supported by a finely cast iron base. The base features a floral cluster on claw and ball feet. Th...

Amazing cartographers table, with provenance of The Original National Geographic Society, headquartered in Washington, D.C. Solid and stabile steel base and brass frame with unbeatab...

Great 19th Century iron base with green paint, time appropriated in areas. All moving parts in good working order. Original oak foot rest. Top is a vintage pine top with a nice warm ...

Charming Danish carpenters workbench with modern tempered stand-off glass top. The workbench has fantastic patina, wear and tear. Two large vices.

Antique adjustable drafting table, wood top, cast iron base.. The top will raise/lower ( 32.5" Lowest position 37.5" Highest position...