What is a Davenport desk?

A Davenport desk is a compact writing cabinet featuring a sloping lid on top of a pedestal base. The interior typically contains small drawers and pigeonholes for stationery. Side drawers slide out to the right or left, often matched with dummy drawers on the opposite side to maintain symmetry.

How do I identify a kneehole desk?

A kneehole desk provides an open central space for the sitter, separating two banks of smaller drawers beneath a rectangular top. These pieces range from Georgian proportions to later Victorian pedestal formats. They offer greater surface area than a Davenport while maintaining a manageable footprint for smaller rooms.

What woods were used for these desks?

Cabinetmakers primarily used mahogany, rosewood, walnut, and oak, supplemented by decorative veneers like burr walnut and satinwood. Brass fittings, leather inserts, and ebony details completed the construction. Softer fruitwoods and beech also appear in specific regional pieces or desk chairs.

How do I care for an antique leather top?

Leather writing surfaces require gentle cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of appropriate leather conservation balm. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can strip the original colour and gilt tooling. Keeping the desk away from direct sunlight and excessive heat sources prevents the leather from drying and cracking.

Home > Small Desk > Page 44

Antique Small Desk

695 items · page 44 of 44

← Page 44 of 44 →

An antique small desk brings compact writing space into a room, offering practical surface area without dominating the floor plan.

Antique Edwardian Mahogany Desk Side Table

1900 - 1920

Save

From Affordable Old Furniture

£250

3+ MONTHS AGO

bureau

← 1 ... 40 41 42 43 44 →

Antique Small Desk

Antique Edwardian Mahogany Desk Side Table

18thc Mahogany Pembroke Table of Small Proportions

Victorian Small Mahogany Centre Writing Table

Queen Anne Style Mahogany Writing Bureau Desk

Victorian Burr Walnut Ladies Writing Desk

Victorian Inlaid Walnut Davenport Writing Desk

Jacobean Style Dark Oak Writing Bureau Desk

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Movements

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Freshness

Online Payments

Categories