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What is an old-fashioned writing desk called?
1 Answer

What an old-fashioned writing desk is called varies by design. Pieces with drop-down fronts are secretary desks (these are typically made of two parts: a chest of drawers on the bottom and a hutch or cupboard with shelves on the top), while ones that rest on two pillars, cabinets or bookcases are pedestal desks. A desk with a small writing surface positioned in front of drawers and cubbies is a bureau à gradin. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of desks.
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
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Shop for Butlers Desk on 1stDibs
Biedermeier Butler Desk
Located in Pompano Beach, FL
Biedermeier butler desk made of flamed birchwood, ebonized handles, brass keys. Drop front writing
Category
Antique 19th Century Desks and Writing Tables
$7,200 Sale Price
67% Off
Biedermeier Butler Desk
Located in Pompano Beach, FL
Biedermeier butler desk made of oak, inlaid ebonized wood, ebonized columns, and brass hardware
Category
Antique 19th Century Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Brass
$7,200 Sale Price
67% Off
Federal Butlers Desk
Located in Bradenton, FL
Very attractive Mahogany southern Federal Butlers Desk probably mid Atlantic states around 1820-30
Category
Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Desks
Materials
Mahogany
$1,895
Circa 1825 English Mahogany Butlers Desk
Located in Savannah, GA
Circa 1825 English Mahogany Butler's Desk with Brass Hardware. Drop front writing surface with
Category
Antique 19th Century English Desks
Materials
Brass
Butler's Desk or Walnut Secretary
By Brian Holcombe
Located in Princeton, NJ
A contemporary take on the butler's desk. A butler's desk is a cabinet that converts into a desk
Category
21st Century and Contemporary American Desks
Materials
Brass
$25,000 / item
Louis XV Style Inlay Butler's Desk, circa 1920
Located in Southampton, NY
Louis XV style inlay butler's desk, circa 1920.
Two tiers, both with small central drawers, topped
Category
Early 20th Century American Louis XV Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood