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Classical Roman Desks and Writing Tables

CLASSICAL ROMAN STYLE

During Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 A.D., Pompeii and Herculaneum in today’s Italy were preserved as they were on the day of their destruction. Particularly at Herculaneum, furnishings were carbonized beneath volcanic ash. This was pivotal to understanding how Classical Roman furniture was designed. Archaeological investigations and printed reproductions of discoveries would influence styles evoking this ancient civilization, from the Renaissance to neoclassicism.

While knowledge of Classical Roman furniture comes from rare surviving pieces, it is also derived from frescoes and sculptures portraying Roman life. Much of Roman art, architecture and design was informed by Greece — Roman architect, military engineer and writer Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, whose timeless De architectura is taught in contemporary architecture classes and pays tribute to classical architecture, visited Greece while working under Julius Caesar and admired the country’s architectural developments. The Roman solium references the Greek thronos, a stately chair of honor with an upright form and footstool. As the Roman Empire spread across Europe and into North Africa and Western Asia, the expansion of trade for silver, silk, marble and wood allowed for more luxurious designs.

Classical Roman furniture was made from bronze, wood and stone — in particular, marble — with ornate touches like tortoiseshell veneers, bone and glass inlays and claw feet. Ornaments depicting lion heads and mythological figures were sculpted from silver, bronze and ivory. Compared to the decorative attention given to the mosaic floors and wall paintings, however, furniture for even a wealthy house was minimal. It focused on the necessities for guests arriving for both socializing and business and the rooms housing family, relatives and enslaved people.

The triclinium dining room had banquet couches, items so prized they were sometimes interred with the deceased. Tall bronze or terracotta candelabras held oil lamps for lighting. Carved marble tables reflected status, while the lararium home shrine demonstrated faith.

Find a collection of Classical Roman decorative objects, tables, seating and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Classical Roman
19th-Century Antique English Writing Desk with Black Leather Top
Located in Harderwijk, NL
What a beautiful, luxurious, and timeless antique writing desk this is! It is in good and proper condition, especially considering its age. We have adjusted it to a modern height, en...
Category

19th Century Antique Classical Roman Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Wood

19th-Century Antique English Writing Desk with Black Leather Top
19th-Century Antique English Writing Desk with Black Leather Top

19th-Century Antique English Writing Desk with Black Leather Top

Large Antique Partner Desk in English Style with Black Leather
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here is this beautiful and spacious antique partner desk in English style with a black leather top. This stunning large antique desk fits well into virtually any interior a...
Category

19th Century Antique Classical Roman Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Wood

Large Antique Partner Desk in English Style with Black Leather
Large Antique Partner Desk in English Style with Black Leather

Large Antique Partner Desk in English Style with Black Leather

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Classical Roman desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Classical Roman desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 19th Century, 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 and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with animal skin, leather and other materials. 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 $2,747 and tops out at $2,747 while the average work can sell for $2,747.

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