Antique Desk
Antique Writing Desk
Deciding what type of antique writing desk to collect, or buy, can be quite testing, as there are various kinds of desk on offer. Antique desks are an attractive item for many. And invites those who do not intend to use it for its intended function. Antique desk is now seen as more than just a working piece of furniture, they are now often used as a thing of beauty and designer elegance.
Desk design has had to change radically, especially, since the computer era, to take into account extra cabling, fax machines, printers, key boards, etc. So, that the mod cons are conveniently situated and space is not compromised. Therefore, it is important to consider the function you are looking for – from your desk.
Buying an antique desk is much more than purchasing an article of furniture. You are investing in a part of history, handed down through the generations – really, it is a work of art. So, you are sure to gain on many levels with your purchase, whether for profit, or aesthetic purposes – you will benefit.
Which Of These Antique Desks Is Right For You?
The antique desk only started to go through major changes in its design as late as the 17th century. Back then, technology advanced rapidly, replacing the classic sloping lid box, or desk box. Later, in the 18th century, came the bureau, a legged cabinet with a fold down front used as the writing surface.
Antique Secretary Desk
Antique Secretary Desk
Bureau and desks, essentially, became one and the same thing, except that later additions were made in the form of extra storage, cubby holes and shelving above the writing surface. This became known as the writing cabinet or bureau cabinet. It’s proper name – “secretary desk” was once a popular desk to have, and is now sought after by collectors and dealers. The more modern reproductions tend to be smaller and lighter, and are made to disassemble for convenience.
Roll Top Antique Desk
Roll Top Antique Desk
The term “desk” has become the generic word for all flat topped writing tables, and, as tables continued to evolve, a new version of the secretary desk came into being. Like the secretary desk, the roll top desk had extra storage, cubby holes and shelving, but instead of a folding writing surface, the roll top has a cover that rolls up into the desk itself, and covers the entire writing surface.
Antique Pedestal Desk
Antique Pedestal Desk
A classic writing desk – the pedestal desk – is usually made from either mahogany or oak. It can have drawers to the front, as well as the back. They can be ornate with decorative wood veneer, beading and leather hide tops. These can make very strong and bold statements, and make a wonderful decorative centre piece for any home, but they usually carry a high price tag at antique shops and can command a premium figure at auction.
School Desk Antique
How To Spot a Quality Antique Desk
When buying an antique desk, the things to look for are:
1. The quality of the joinery (dovetail construction)
2. General condition of the desk
3. Knocks and scratches
4. Veneer and beading intact
5. If any handles are missing (check for original handles)
6. Keys for the drawers, and to ensure that the drawers open and close easily, and are undamaged
7. Check for any restoration, that has been carried out (enquire with whoever is selling – antique shop, auction house, etc.). Also, see that the top is in good condition.
8. Check for maker’s name.
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