Skip to main content

Modern Desks and Writing Tables

MODERN STYLE

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw sweeping social change and major scientific advances — both of which contributed to a new aesthetic: modernism. Rejecting the rigidity of Victorian artistic conventions, modernists sought a new means of expression. References to the natural world and ornate classical embellishments gave way to the sleek simplicity of the Machine Age. Architect Philip Johnson characterized the hallmarks of modernism as “machine-like simplicity, smoothness or surface [and] avoidance of ornament.”

Early practitioners of modernist design include the De Stijl (“The Style”) group, founded in the Netherlands in 1917, and the Bauhaus School, founded two years later in Germany.

Followers of both groups produced sleek, spare designs — many of which became icons of daily life in the 20th century. The modernists rejected both natural and historical references and relied primarily on industrial materials such as metal, glass, plywood, and, later, plastics. While Bauhaus principals Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created furniture from mass-produced, chrome-plated steel, American visionaries like Charles and Ray Eames worked in materials as novel as molded plywood and fiberglass. Today, Breuer’s Wassily chair, Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona chair — crafted with his romantic partner, designer Lilly Reich — and the Eames lounge chair are emblems of progressive design and vintage originals are prized cornerstones of collections.

It’s difficult to overstate the influence that modernism continues to wield over designers and architects — and equally difficult to overstate how revolutionary it was when it first appeared a century ago. But because modernist furniture designs are so simple, they can blend in seamlessly with just about any type of décor. Don’t overlook them.

4
to
1
4
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
1
3
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
3
2
1
1
1
4
4
328
39
23
17
16
Style: Modern
Creator: Karl Springer
Karl Springer Rare "Goatskin Free Form Desk" 1988
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Rare and exceptional "Goatskin Free Form Desk" in lacquered goatskin with drawer by Karl Springer, American 1988 (date stamped on bottom). Springer’s Free Form...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Goatskin, Wood, Lacquer

Karl Springer Rare "Goatskin Free Form Desk" 1988
Karl Springer Rare "Goatskin Free Form Desk" 1988

Karl Springer Rare "Goatskin Free Form Desk" 1988

Large Dining Table with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in Atlanta, GA
A glamorous dining table designed and retailed by Karl Springer, circa 1980s. The iconic shape features a beveled horse track-shape top with ro...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stone

Large Dining Table with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer
Large Dining Table with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer

Large Dining Table with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer

Karl Springer "Ming Writing Desk" in Embossed Leather 1980s
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
“Ming Desk” in color embossed textured leather with 2 drawers by Karl Springer, American 1980's. The craftsmanship and materials are superb and this is a wonderful example of Karl Springer’s work. This is a pared down version of the Chinese Style Series which preceded it. Reference: Karl Springer LTD red binder catalog published in the 1980’s, section “Coffee Tables and Bar Carts”, on page 9 there is a photo of the coffee table model of this desk with the page titled “KARL SPRINGER LTD CHINESE STYLE COFFEE TABLE...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Wood

Karl Springer "Ming Writing Desk" in Embossed Leather 1980s
Karl Springer "Ming Writing Desk" in Embossed Leather 1980s

Karl Springer "Ming Writing Desk" in Embossed Leather 1980s

Karl Springer Lucite, Glass and Gold Plated Over Brass Console, Desk or Table
By Karl Springer
Located in North Miami, FL
This elegant vintage Karl Springer console table, writing desk, entry table or dining table has 4 arched lucite columns that rest on a 22 carat gold plated over brass angled plinth p...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Gold, Brass

Karl Springer Lucite, Glass and Gold Plated Over Brass Console, Desk or Table
Karl Springer Lucite, Glass and Gold Plated Over Brass Console, Desk or Table

Karl Springer Lucite, Glass and Gold Plated Over Brass Console, Desk or Table

Related Items
Mastercraft Brass 'Trilobi' Triangular Dining Table or Desk Bases, circa 1970
By Mastercraft
Located in Los Angeles, CA
One of the hottest items currently with interior designers are these gleaming brass 'Trilobi' Mastercraft dining table bases, which also work excellent for a desk or work table, feature a hefty triangular design with sculpted ends. The gorgeous brass displays subtle signs of an admirable patina, which can be highly desirable, bringing more vibrancy to this set of 1970s brass table bases by Mastercraft. And most importantly - these are authentic vintage examples... there is now an inferior (but still pricey) knock-off by RH and many dealers do not know how to spot the difference and will sell the fakes as authentic. We have owned and sold over 30 of these over the course of the last 10 years and can guarantee the ones we offer are authentic 'originals' of the design by Mastercraft. *Please note, the table bases in this listing are priced individually. **In addition, the Trilobi bases in the photos have already sold, however we two more in similar condition that are en route to us now and are available for pre-sale. Please message us with any questions. You can use a single base for a round or square top. Looks excellent with glass or marble tops - we can assist in the production of a new glass or stone top - contact us for more details. Or you can pair 2, 3 or even all 4 bases together to form a larger dining table, conference table or desk with a large rectangular or oval top. These Mastercraft brass 'Trilobi' dining table bases would be great as part of a classic or contemporary dining room, living room, family room, sunroom or kitchen. These Triboli tables would also be an apt choice in a corporate, retail or hospitality location such as a boutique restaurant...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Mastercraft Brass 'Trilobi' Triangular Dining Table or Desk Bases, circa 1970
Mastercraft Brass 'Trilobi' Triangular Dining Table or Desk Bases, circa 1970

Mastercraft Brass 'Trilobi' Triangular Dining Table or Desk Bases, circa 1970

H 28 in Dm 21 in
Leather Top Writing Desk
Located in Pomona, CA
A leather top writing desk with brass accent on the edge and three drawers
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Leather Top Writing Desk
Leather Top Writing Desk

Leather Top Writing Desk

H 29.5 in W 60 in D 30 in
1980s Style Black and White Desk
By Carlton House Fine Furniture
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Interesting 1980s era writing desk. Black lacquer and white laminent tops by Carlton House Furniture.  
Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Laminate, Wood, Lacquer

1980s Style Black and White Desk
1980s Style Black and White Desk

1980s Style Black and White Desk

H 30 in W 58 in D 18 in
Faux Goatskin Dining Table Style of Karl Springer, 1970
By Karl Springer
Located in Chicago, IL
Faux Goatskin Dining Table Style of Karl Springer, 1970. Has 1 leaf. Beautiful table in great original condition. Measures 72' long without leaf, leaf is 18" wide, total length of ta...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Goatskin

Faux Goatskin Dining Table Style of Karl Springer, 1970
Faux Goatskin Dining Table Style of Karl Springer, 1970

Faux Goatskin Dining Table Style of Karl Springer, 1970

H 28.5 in W 90 in D 41 in
Original Vintage Karl Springer Executive Black Lacquered Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in East Hampton, NY
This large scale executive desk belonged to the late fashion designer, Geoffrey Beene. Sourced from his Estate in Oyster Bay, NY, it is in good vintage condition, 4 invisible drawer...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Original Vintage Karl Springer Executive Black Lacquered Desk
Original Vintage Karl Springer Executive Black Lacquered Desk

Original Vintage Karl Springer Executive Black Lacquered Desk

H 30 in W 84 in D 42 in
Georges Frydman, Free Form Office, France 1956
By Georges Frydman, EFA
Located in Catonvielle, FR
Georges Frydman, free-form desk published by E.F.A., France 1956. Placed on a gray lacquered tubular base, the trapezoidal top is veneered with matt black formica, enhanced by a wide...
Category

1950s French Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Georges Frydman, Free Form Office, France 1956
Georges Frydman, Free Form Office, France 1956

Georges Frydman, Free Form Office, France 1956

H 28.35 in W 55.12 in D 30.71 in
Rare Karl Springer Goatskin, Leather and Brass Game Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Round Rock, TX
Rare angular leg backgammon table designed by Karl Springer. This beautiful table is wrapped in a lacquered beige goatskin with a leather backgammon board in brown, beige and coral. ...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Rare Karl Springer Goatskin, Leather and Brass Game Table
Rare Karl Springer Goatskin, Leather and Brass Game Table

Rare Karl Springer Goatskin, Leather and Brass Game Table

H 30 in W 40 in D 40 in
Karl Springer Lacquered Goatskin Square Coffee Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Square ivory-colored goatskin and lacquer coffee table designed by Karl Springer featuring thick rounded table legs and rounded corners. Karl Springe...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Lacquer, Goatskin

Karl Springer Lacquered Goatskin Square Coffee Table
Karl Springer Lacquered Goatskin Square Coffee Table

Karl Springer Lacquered Goatskin Square Coffee Table

H 17.25 in W 42 in D 42 in
Lacquered Goatskin Parchment Console Table by Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in Palm Springs, CA
Spectacular 1986 goatskin console table with two drawers designed by Karl Springer. Constructed of wood covered with goatskin and finish with clear lacquer. Shows minor wear consis...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Goatskin, Wood

Lacquered Goatskin Parchment Console Table by Karl Springer
Lacquered Goatskin Parchment Console Table by Karl Springer

Lacquered Goatskin Parchment Console Table by Karl Springer

H 37.75 in W 66 in D 18 in
Karl Springer Style Faux Goatskin Lacquered Console Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Doylestown, PA
Vintage Karl Springer style faux goatskin lacquered console table. This parsons style table features a freeform, goatskin pattern in warm tones....
Category

1980s Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood, Lacquer

Karl Springer Style Faux Goatskin Lacquered Console Table
Karl Springer Style Faux Goatskin Lacquered Console Table

Karl Springer Style Faux Goatskin Lacquered Console Table

H 29.25 in W 56.5 in D 16.75 in
Exceptional Karl Springer Free Form Table Set, 1980's
By Karl Springer
Located in Culver City, CA
Available right now we have an increasingly rare and sought after set of Karl Springer Free Form Coffee Tables. These tables are a...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Exceptional Karl Springer Free Form Table Set, 1980's
Exceptional Karl Springer Free Form Table Set, 1980's

Exceptional Karl Springer Free Form Table Set, 1980's

H 19.75 in W 49 in D 33 in
Post modernist desk, 1980s
By Massimo and Lella Vignelli
Located in JASSANS-RIOTTIER, FR
Desk from the 80s in France - Red laminate box with 3 drawers on the left - Black lacquered pyramid on the right - Rectangular glass top In the manner of Kono model from Lella and Ma...
Category

Late 20th Century French Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Laminate

Post modernist desk, 1980s
Post modernist desk, 1980s

Post modernist desk, 1980s

H 38.59 in W 80.71 in D 23.63 in
Previously Available Items
Round Dining Center able with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in Atlanta, GA
A glamorous circular dining table designed by Karl Springer circa 1980s. Supported by a pedestal in a large column shape, the thick tabletop features a rounded beveled edge and encir...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stone

Round Dining Center able with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer
Round Dining Center able with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer

Round Dining Center able with Stone Mosaic Surface by Karl Springer

H 29 in Dm 48 in
Karl Springer Ivory Goatskin Freeform Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Authentic and very rare Karl Springer Free Form desk with drawer*. The color is ivory and warmer than white as shown. Dated March 9th 1990. As ...
Category

1990s American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Goatskin, Wood

Karl Springer Ivory Goatskin Freeform Desk
Karl Springer Ivory Goatskin Freeform Desk

Karl Springer Ivory Goatskin Freeform Desk

H 29 in W 77 in D 37.5 in
Karl Springer Rare 3 Drawer Writing Desk in Brass and Polished Gunmetal 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Rare "Square Leg Desk" in polished brass and polished gunmetal with inset top panels in 2-tone celadon and beige embossed lizard leather by Karl Springer, American 1970's. This desk ...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Karl Springer Rare 3 Drawer Writing Desk in Brass and Polished Gunmetal 1970s
Karl Springer Rare 3 Drawer Writing Desk in Brass and Polished Gunmetal 1970s

Karl Springer Rare 3 Drawer Writing Desk in Brass and Polished Gunmetal 1970s

H 29 in W 54 in D 28 in
Karl Springer Rare Writing Desk in Brass and Brushed Gunmetal 1970's
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Rare stunning "Square Leg Writing Desk" in gold tinted brass and brushed gunmetal with inset top panels in embossed shagreen leather by Karl Springer, American 1970's. This desk has ...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Karl Springer Rare Writing Desk in Brass and Brushed Gunmetal 1970's
Karl Springer Rare Writing Desk in Brass and Brushed Gunmetal 1970's

Karl Springer Rare Writing Desk in Brass and Brushed Gunmetal 1970's

H 30.5 in W 56 in D 26 in
Karl Springer Incredible Embossed Crocodile Leather Scroll Leg Desk, 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Large and impressive desk in 2-tone chocolate embossed crocodile leather with scroll legs and 2 drawers lines with moire silk by Karl Springer, American 1970's. The impeccable crafts...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Silk, Wood

Karl Springer Incredible Embossed Crocodile Leather Scroll Leg Desk, 1970s
Karl Springer Incredible Embossed Crocodile Leather Scroll Leg Desk, 1970s

Karl Springer Incredible Embossed Crocodile Leather Scroll Leg Desk, 1970s

H 29.5 in W 68.5 in D 26 in
Karl Springer Goatskin and Brass Executive Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in Chicago, IL
Large waterfall desk by Karl Springer, circa 1970. Natural goatskin with brass pulls. Desk has two small top drawers, two large bottom drawers and two pull-out writing surfaces over ...
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather

Karl Springer Goatskin and Brass Executive Desk
Karl Springer Goatskin and Brass Executive Desk

Karl Springer Goatskin and Brass Executive Desk

H 29 in W 72 in D 36 in
Embossed Leather Clad Executive Desk Karl Springer
By Karl Springer
Located in Atlanta, GA
A substantial leather-clad desk designed by Karl Springer, circa 1982. Heavy wood construction completely encased in pattern embossed leather on all sides. The desk features two rows...
Category

Late 20th Century American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Embossed Leather Clad Executive Desk Karl Springer
Embossed Leather Clad Executive Desk Karl Springer

Embossed Leather Clad Executive Desk Karl Springer

H 29 in W 64 in D 28 in
Karl Springer Ivory Shagreen Waterfall Style Desk, 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in New York, NY
Waterfall style desk with two drawers covered in ivory shagreen by Karl Springer, American, 1970s. The materials and craftsmanship of this desk are remarkable.
Category

1970s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Shagreen

Karl Springer Ivory Shagreen Waterfall Style Desk, 1970s
Karl Springer Ivory Shagreen Waterfall Style Desk, 1970s

Karl Springer Ivory Shagreen Waterfall Style Desk, 1970s

H 29.5 in W 54.25 in D 22 in
Karl Springer Oval Lacquered Goatskin Dining Table/ Library Table/ Large Desk
By Karl Springer
Located in North Miami, FL
This absolutely stunning and gorgeous sculptural oval lacquered Karl Springer goatskin dining table has knife edge forms on 2 sculp...
Category

1980s American Vintage Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Goatskin, Lacquer

Karl Springer Oval Lacquered Goatskin Dining Table/ Library Table/ Large Desk
Karl Springer Oval Lacquered Goatskin Dining Table/ Library Table/ Large Desk

Karl Springer Oval Lacquered Goatskin Dining Table/ Library Table/ Large Desk

H 29 in W 79 in D 45 in
1986 Signed Karl Springer Leather and Chrome Writing Desk and Leather Chair
By Karl Springer
Located in Dallas, TX
Leather and chrome "Radius Leg Writing Desk" with two drawers and all leather covered classic "Regency" chair, both signed and dated Karl Springer (1986), accompanied by a lucite des...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

1986 Signed Karl Springer Leather and Chrome Writing Desk and Leather Chair
1986 Signed Karl Springer Leather and Chrome Writing Desk and Leather Chair

1986 Signed Karl Springer Leather and Chrome Writing Desk and Leather Chair

H 29 in W 60 in D 30.5 in
Breathtaking Vintage Karl Springer Macassar Ebony & Shagreen Leather Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Chicago, IL
Whether this fine table is utilized for dining, conferences, or as an extra special desk, it is sure to fulfill its expectations in the uttermost style. The spectacular way the black...
Category

20th Century American Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Breathtaking Vintage Karl Springer Macassar Ebony & Shagreen Leather Table
Breathtaking Vintage Karl Springer Macassar Ebony & Shagreen Leather Table

Breathtaking Vintage Karl Springer Macassar Ebony & Shagreen Leather Table

H 29 in W 88.25 in D 48 in

Modern desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique 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, more furniture and collectibles and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used 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 Marco Zanuso Jr., Finn Juhl, Greenapple, and Elena Salmistraro. 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 $205 and tops out at $76,270 while the average work can sell for $6,480.

Recently Viewed

View All

More Ways To Browse

Regency Leather Top Writing Desk
Antique Mahogany Desk French
Bamboo Writing Desk
Antique Wooden Desk Table
Antique Wooden Table Desk
Italian Small Writing Tables
Midcentury Desk With Floating Top
Traditional Antique Desk
Desk Table 70
Carved Oak French Desk
Small Victorian Desk
Writing Table Light Wood
Antique Solid Oak Writing Desk
Painted French Writing Table
Antique Ornate Desk
Wood Brass Inlay Desk
Neoclassical Style Desk
Green Victorian Desk
View All Popular Desks and Writing Tables Searches