What defines a 19th-century serpentine writing table?

A serpentine writing table features a distinctive wave-like curved front edge that was popular throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Designed primarily for writing and administration, these pieces combine refined cabinetmaking with practical frieze drawers.

Which materials and construction techniques were traditionally used in period writing tables?

These tables were typically crafted using solid mahogany or rich mahogany veneers, prized for grain stability and warm coloration. Quality construction includes hand-cut dovetail drawer joints, oak drawer linings, and cast brass handles.

How can you identify an authentic 19th-century mahogany desk?

Authentic period desks display evidence of traditional hand woodworking, such as slight irregularities in dovetail jointing and hand-planed drawer bases. Look for genuine brass drawer fittings with natural oxidisation and light surface wear consistent with age.

How can a serpentine writing table be styled in a modern interior?

A serpentine table can serve as a slim home office workstation, a hallway console table, or a dressing table in a bedroom. Pair the historic timber with contemporary lighting and a modern chair to balance the traditional woodwork.

How should antique mahogany furniture be cared for and preserved?

Maintain the finish by dusting with a dry microfibre cloth and applying a high-quality beeswax polish once or twice a year. Keep mahogany items away from direct heat sources and direct sunlight to avoid timber movement and surface fading.

for sale €801 $870

£685

ActFurniture LTD

Sellingantiques Verified Since Apr 2023

View Dealers Stock Page

Relevant Links

Vintage Wooden Study Desk

Victorian Mahogany Writing Desk

Id #SA1222697

PDF

SAVE

Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Name: Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1222697
Price: 685 GBP
Availability: InStock

19th century

For Sale by ActFurniture LTD

Description

Antique 19th century serpentine writing table in mahogany, very well made and of fine quality.

Featuring a beautifully shaped serpentine front, this elegant writing table showcases the refined craftsmanship and graceful proportions associated with quality 19th century furniture.

The table incorporates two drawers to the front, both retaining their original brass handles, providing practical storage while preserving the character and authenticity of the piece. Standing on slender strung square legs, it displays understated elegance and timeless appeal.

Boasting gorgeous mahogany grain and rich colour throughout, this is a highly desirable and increasingly rare example.

The stunning serpentine shape, quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship combine to create a striking piece that would complement both traditional and period interiors.

Presented in good condition, displaying beautiful grain, colour and craftsmanship throughout, this elegant writing table would make a wonderful addition to a study, living room or home office and is a perfect addition to any home.

Product Reference : AF - 5997

Measurements : 102cm Width x 55cm Depth x 73cm Height [ 59cm Knee Height ]

All our products are available for viewing at our stockroom based in Malvern strictly by appointment only.

Every order is professionally cleaned and polished by our team prior to dispatch or collection.

Please feel free to get in contact with us regarding any queries you might have relating to a specific piece or if you’d like to arrange a visit and I aim to respond as quickly as possible.

Prior to making a purchase, it is important that you please contact us to confirm the piece is still available. We endeavour to keep our stock details up to date, but due to our fast stock turnover there maybe occasions where an item has been sold but it has not yet been updated online.

Delivery ( £65 ) :

All our pieces are professionally wrapped in black plastic and sent though a trusted private courier which we can organise upon your request.

The delivery service consists of a two man team with a delivery timeframe of 3 - 15 working days from the date payment has been received. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements and we will do our upmost to accommodate these, although no guarantees can be given.

The courier will be in contact with you directly with details of exact delivery date and approximate time of arrival.

We currently cover all of the UK Mainlands including most of Scotland.

Scotland -

Delivery cost and timeframe to Scotland and Scottish Highlands will vary regarding on the location and number of orders we have in the area so please get in contact for a direct quote.

Collection ( FREE ) :

Pieces can be collected from WR6 5JE free of charge strictly by appointment only. Please contact us to arrange this.

All goods will be professionally cleaned and polished by our team prior to your arrival.

Many thanks and if you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us and one of our team will respond as quickly as possible.

Physical Dimensions

Height

73cm (28.74")

Width

102cm (40.16")

Depth

55cm (21.65")

Declaration

ActFurniture LTD has dated this Mahogany Serpentine Writing Table to the Victorian era.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1222697

Dealers Internal Reference

AF-5997

Description

Antique 19th century serpentine writing table in mahogany, very well made and of fine quality.

“

Featuring a beautifully shaped serpentine front, this elegant writing table showcases the refined craftsmanship and graceful proportions associated with quality 19th century furniture.

ActFurniture LTD

fig 1. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 1. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

The table incorporates two drawers to the front, both retaining their original brass handles, providing practical storage while preserving the character and authenticity of the piece. Standing on slender strung square legs, it displays understated elegance and timeless appeal.

fig 2. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 2. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Boasting gorgeous mahogany grain and rich colour throughout, this is a highly desirable and increasingly rare example.

The stunning serpentine shape, quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship combine to create a striking piece that would complement both traditional and period interiors.

fig 3. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 3. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Presented in good condition, displaying beautiful grain, colour and craftsmanship throughout, this elegant writing table would make a wonderful addition to a study, living room or home office and is a perfect addition to any home.

fig 4. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 4. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Product Reference : AF - 5997

Measurements : 102cm Width x 55cm Depth x 73cm Height [ 59cm Knee Height ]

All our products are available for viewing at our stockroom based in Malvern strictly by appointment only.

fig 5. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 5. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Every order is professionally cleaned and polished by our team prior to dispatch or collection.

Please feel free to get in contact with us regarding any queries you might have relating to a specific piece or if you’d like to arrange a visit and I aim to respond as quickly as possible.

fig 6. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 6. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Prior to making a purchase, it is important that you please contact us to confirm the piece is still available. We endeavour to keep our stock details up to date, but due to our fast stock turnover there maybe occasions where an item has been sold but it has not yet been updated online.

fig 7. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 7. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

Delivery ( £65 ) :

All our pieces are professionally wrapped in black plastic and sent though a trusted private courier which we can organise upon your request.

The delivery service consists of a two man team with a delivery timeframe of 3 - 15 working days from the date payment has been received. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements and we will do our upmost to accommodate these, although no guarantees can be given.

fig 8. A 19th-century mahogany writing table with a curved serpentine front edge, two drawers with brass handles, and square legs. — fig 8. Antique 19th Century Serpentine Writing Table in Mahogany

The courier will be in contact with you directly with details of exact delivery date and approximate time of arrival.

We currently cover all of the UK Mainlands including most of Scotland.

Scotland -

Delivery cost and timeframe to Scotland and Scottish Highlands will vary regarding on the location and number of orders we have in the area so please get in contact for a direct quote.