Skip to main content

Lap and Portable Desks

Inlaid Desk
Sealing Wax
Lap Desk On Stand
Rosewood Writing Slope
Traveling Lap Desk Box
English Campaign Desk
Chippendale Partners Desk
Chinese Writing Desk With Drawers
More Popular Searches
Antique English Rosewood Regency Inlaid Lap Desk, circa 1830
Located in New Orleans, LA
Antique English rosewood regency inlaid lap desk, circa 1830.
Category

Antique 19th Century English Regency Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Antique English Rosewood Regency Inlaid Lap Desk, circa 1830
Antique English Rosewood Regency Inlaid Lap Desk, circa 1830

Antique English Rosewood Regency Inlaid Lap Desk, circa 1830

H 7.25 in W 19.75 in D 10.75 in
Antique English Regency Rosewood Travelling Lap Desk Box, Circa 1830
Located in New Orleans, LA
Antique English Regency rosewood travelling lap desk box, circa 1830.
Category

Antique 19th Century English Regency Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Antique English Regency Rosewood Travelling Lap Desk Box, Circa 1830
Antique English Regency Rosewood Travelling Lap Desk Box, Circa 1830

Antique English Regency Rosewood Travelling Lap Desk Box, Circa 1830

H 7.25 in W 19.75 in D 10.75 in
19th-Century Pine Lap Desk Inlaid with Mother-of-Pearl
Located in Opole, PL
19th-Century Pine Lap Desk Inlaid with Mother-of-Pearl A small and lined with a fabric lap desk
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century European Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut, Pine, Burl, Mother-of-Pearl

19th-Century Pine Lap Desk Inlaid with Mother-of-Pearl
19th-Century Pine Lap Desk Inlaid with Mother-of-Pearl

19th-Century Pine Lap Desk Inlaid with Mother-of-Pearl

H 5.12 in W 9.85 in D 8.67 in
19th C China Trade Roll Top Lap Desk on Stand
Located in Charleston, SC
A early-19th century Asian hardwood lap desk on stand. A similar one is pictured in "The Decorative
Category

Antique 19th Century Chinese Chinese Export Desks

Materials

Wood

19th C China Trade Roll Top Lap Desk on Stand
19th C China Trade Roll Top Lap Desk on Stand

19th C China Trade Roll Top Lap Desk on Stand

H 40 in W 20.5 in D 16.75 in
Travel Lap Desk Walnut 19th C. on Stand as Side Table Decorative Gift Antique LA
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Travel Lap Desk Walnut 19th C. on Stand as Side Table Decorative Gift Antique LA . Exquisite
Category

Antique 19th Century English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Travel Lap Desk Walnut 19th C. on Stand as Side Table Decorative Gift Antique LA
Travel Lap Desk Walnut 19th C. on Stand as Side Table Decorative Gift Antique LA

Travel Lap Desk Walnut 19th C. on Stand as Side Table Decorative Gift Antique LA

H 20 in W 19.5 in D 10.5 in
19th Century 3-Piece Diminutive Lacquer Secretary Desk with Nice Chinoiserie
Located in Milford, NH
decoration, including a base table, brass-handled lap desk, and two door cabinet with compartmentalized
Category

Antique 19th Century English Chinoiserie Desks

Materials

Mahogany

19th Century 3-Piece Diminutive Lacquer Secretary Desk with Nice Chinoiserie
19th Century 3-Piece Diminutive Lacquer Secretary Desk with Nice Chinoiserie

19th Century 3-Piece Diminutive Lacquer Secretary Desk with Nice Chinoiserie

H 64.5 in W 24 in D 24 in
19th Century Laptop
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This 19th century laptop is also known as a writing slope, or a lap desk! It became wildly popular
Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

19th Century Laptop
19th Century Laptop

19th Century Laptop

H 6 in W 16 in D 9.75 in
Rare 19th Century English Eclipse Patented Telescopic Desk
Located in Dallas, TX
central section which functions just like a lap desk with a storage compartment underneath. Above it is a
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Desks

Materials

Brass

Rare 19th Century English Eclipse Patented Telescopic Desk
Rare 19th Century English Eclipse Patented Telescopic Desk

Rare 19th Century English Eclipse Patented Telescopic Desk

H 31.25 in W 23 in D 24.5 in

Recent Sales

China Trade Camphorwood Lap Desk
Located in Wilton, CT
China Trade Lap Desk With Pop-up Compartments and Secret Drawers. Retro-fited with Brass English
Category

Antique 19th Century Desks and Writing Tables

China Trade Camphorwood Lap Desk
China Trade Camphorwood Lap Desk

China Trade Camphorwood Lap Desk

H 11 in W 19 in D 17 in
Japanese Lacquered Lap Desk on Stand
Located in Newburgh, NY
Japanese lap desk on stand with interior fold-out writing surface. Architect, Sandy Littman of
Category

Vintage 1960s Unknown Japonisme Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Japanese Lacquered Lap Desk on Stand
Japanese Lacquered Lap Desk on Stand

Japanese Lacquered Lap Desk on Stand

H 19 in W 19 in D 11 in
19th Century English Walnut Lap Desk
Located in Salt Lake City, UT
An English brass mounted burr walnut lap desk on later stand from the second half of the 19th
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

19th Century English Walnut Lap Desk
19th Century English Walnut Lap Desk

19th Century English Walnut Lap Desk

H 21.25 in W 19.75 in D 10 in
Antique Calamander Writing Bowx on Later Stand
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A very high end English Regency Calamander, brass (with Bramah locks) and leather lap desk, now
Category

20th Century English Decorative Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Calamander Writing Bowx on Later Stand
Antique Calamander Writing Bowx on Later Stand

Antique Calamander Writing Bowx on Later Stand

H 20 in W 20.5 in D 11.5 in
Rosewood Lap Desk
Located in Wilson, NC
This English lap desk has a velvet writing surface which has wear commensurate with age and use
Category

Antique 1850s English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Rosewood Lap Desk
Rosewood Lap Desk

Rosewood Lap Desk

H 5.25 in W 16 in D 9.75 in
19th C Original Paint Decorated Lap Desk
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This fine painted and hand made early lap desk in post master format on high turned legs. The paint
Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Adirondack Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

19th C Original Paint Decorated Lap Desk
19th C Original Paint Decorated Lap Desk

19th C Original Paint Decorated Lap Desk

H 38 in W 30 in D 24 in
William IV / Victorian Lap Desk on Stand
Located in Astoria, NY
William IV or early Victorian lap desk on stand, the brass mounted rosewood with a cartouche
Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

William IV / Victorian Lap Desk on Stand
William IV / Victorian Lap Desk on Stand

William IV / Victorian Lap Desk on Stand

H 7 in W 20 in D 10.25 in
English Campaign Style Lap Desk on Stand, 19th Century
Located in Savannah, GA
Antique Campaign style lap desk on stand, 19th century. Desk without stand is 24" W x 12" D x 7" H
Category

Antique 19th Century English Campaign Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

English Campaign Style Lap Desk on Stand, 19th Century
English Campaign Style Lap Desk on Stand, 19th Century

English Campaign Style Lap Desk on Stand, 19th Century

H 21 in W 24.75 in D 13 in
Victorian Mahogany & Brass Lap Desk Box on Stand
Located in Astoria, NY
Victorian brass-bound mahogany lap desk or writing box on stand, the box rectangular with central
Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Victorian Mahogany & Brass Lap Desk Box on Stand
Victorian Mahogany & Brass Lap Desk Box on Stand

Victorian Mahogany & Brass Lap Desk Box on Stand

H 22 in W 21 in D 10.5 in
Antique 19th Century English Mahogany Campaign Lap Desk on Stand
Located in Atlanta, GA
A oversized 19th century english mahogany lap desk on stand. Fine quality with brass mounts, “BF
Category

Antique 19th Century Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Antique 19th Century English Mahogany Campaign Lap Desk on Stand
Antique 19th Century English Mahogany Campaign Lap Desk on Stand

Antique 19th Century English Mahogany Campaign Lap Desk on Stand

H 22.5 in W 18.5 in D 11.25 in
Early 19th Century English Lap Desk on Stand with Original Leather
Located in Middleburg, VA
Early 19th Century English Lap Desk on Stand with Original Leather. England, circa 1800-1830
Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood, Leather

Early 19th Century English Lap Desk on Stand with Original Leather
Early 19th Century English Lap Desk on Stand with Original Leather

Early 19th Century English Lap Desk on Stand with Original Leather

H 20 in W 14.5 in D 9.5 in
English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century
Located in Savannah, GA
English mahogany lap desk on a custom-made stand with brass fit decorations and candle holders
Category

Antique 19th Century English Decorative Boxes

English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century
English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century

English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century

H 25.5 in W 20.5 in D 10.5 in
English Campaign Mahogany Lap Desk Decorative Box on Custom Stand, circa 1860
Located in Atlanta, GA
This English Campaign lap desk from the mid-19th century features a rectangular mahogany writing
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Campaign Decorative Boxes

Materials

Brass

English Campaign Mahogany Lap Desk Decorative Box on Custom Stand, circa 1860
English Campaign Mahogany Lap Desk Decorative Box on Custom Stand, circa 1860

English Campaign Mahogany Lap Desk Decorative Box on Custom Stand, circa 1860

H 19 in W 15 in D 9.5 in
19th Century Louis XV Style Mahogany Stand or Side Table with Lap Desk Drawer
Located in Savannah, GA
19th Century Louis XV Style Inlaid Mahogany Stand or Side Table with Lap Desk Drawer, inset black
Category

Antique 19th Century French Louis XV Side Tables

Materials

Bronze

19th Century Louis XV Style Mahogany Stand or Side Table with Lap Desk Drawer
19th Century Louis XV Style Mahogany Stand or Side Table with Lap Desk Drawer

19th Century Louis XV Style Mahogany Stand or Side Table with Lap Desk Drawer

H 27.5 in W 17.5 in D 13.5 in
Antique English Lap Desk Wedgwood Mount
Located in New Orleans, LA
Rare antique English burled walnut with Wedgwood mount signed by retailer Trussell of Brighton interior is lined with Coromandel wood and has original inkwells,pen nib holder and dip...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Boxes

Antique English Lap Desk Wedgwood Mount
Antique English Lap Desk Wedgwood Mount

Antique English Lap Desk Wedgwood Mount

H 4.25 in W 14 in D 10 in
Quality 19th Century Military Campaign Camphor Wood Roll Top Writing Slope
Located in Benington, Herts
quality Chinese export camphor wood metamorphic writing slope / lap desk dating to circa 1850 was made for
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Asian Chinese Export Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Quality 19th Century Military Campaign Camphor Wood Roll Top Writing Slope
Quality 19th Century Military Campaign Camphor Wood Roll Top Writing Slope

Quality 19th Century Military Campaign Camphor Wood Roll Top Writing Slope

H 11.23 in W 21.07 in D 16.74 in
19th Century Asian Burl Wood & Elmwood Scholar's Lap Floor Desk Stationary Table
Located in Vancouver, British Columbia
Uniquely conceived Asian scholar's writing table with flaps and drawers as well as open tier for housing paperwork, stationary etc. Simple lines with old patina. Some ink stains pres...
Category

Antique 1880s Chinese Qing Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Burl

19th Century Asian Burl Wood & Elmwood Scholar's Lap Floor Desk Stationary Table
19th Century Asian Burl Wood & Elmwood Scholar's Lap Floor Desk Stationary Table

19th Century Asian Burl Wood & Elmwood Scholar's Lap Floor Desk Stationary Table

H 13 in W 18.5 in D 13 in
Military Style Victorian Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1850
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This military style Victorian lap desk writing slope has multiple internal compartments including a
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Early Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Military Style Victorian Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1850
Military Style Victorian Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1850

Military Style Victorian Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1850

H 6.5 in W 15.75 in D 9.75 in
Victorian English Walnut Lap Desk Box on Stand
Located in Astoria, NY
Victorian braqsss-mound English walnut Lap Desk or writing box on stand, rectangular with cartouche
Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Victorian English Walnut Lap Desk Box on Stand
Victorian English Walnut Lap Desk Box on Stand

Victorian English Walnut Lap Desk Box on Stand

H 22 in W 19.5 in D 10 in
British Mahogany Officer's Campaign Lap Desk on Stand
Located in Rio Vista, CA
19th century British mahogany Campaign desk style officers chest or lap desk box on a later stand
Category

Antique 19th Century English Campaign Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

British Mahogany Officer's Campaign Lap Desk on Stand
British Mahogany Officer's Campaign Lap Desk on Stand

British Mahogany Officer's Campaign Lap Desk on Stand

H 20 in W 18 in D 10 in
Antique 19th Century English Campaign Lap Desk on Stand
Located in Peabody, MA
An early 19th Century English lap desk on stand, can be used as an elegant side table. On stand
Category

Antique 19th Century British Campaign Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Antique 19th Century English Campaign Lap Desk on Stand
Antique 19th Century English Campaign Lap Desk on Stand

Antique 19th Century English Campaign Lap Desk on Stand

H 22 in W 18.63 in D 11.63 in
English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century
Located in Savannah, GA
English mahogany lap desk on a custom-made stand with brass fit decorations and candleholders, 19th
Category

Antique 19th Century English Desks and Writing Tables

English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century
English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century

English Mahogany Lap Desk on a Custom-Made Stand, 19th Century

H 25.5 in W 20.5 in D 10.5 in
Antique English Traditional Lap Desk on Custom Stand
Located in Hopewell, NJ
English mahogany lap desk, brass bound with inlaid brass stringing and brass presentation plaque
Category

Antique 1850s English End Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Antique English Traditional Lap Desk on Custom Stand
Antique English Traditional Lap Desk on Custom Stand

Antique English Traditional Lap Desk on Custom Stand

H 24 in W 19.5 in D 10.25 in
Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts 4 Drawer Spool Thread Cabinet Writing Lap Desk
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts 4 drawer spool thread cabinet writing lap desk. Item features 4
Category

Antique 19th Century North American Arts and Crafts Desks and Writing Ta...

Materials

Oak

Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts 4 Drawer Spool Thread Cabinet Writing Lap Desk
Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts 4 Drawer Spool Thread Cabinet Writing Lap Desk

Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts 4 Drawer Spool Thread Cabinet Writing Lap Desk

H 12 in W 29.5 in D 20 in
Antique English Regency Period Rosewood Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1830
Located in Shippensburg, PA
A very nice quality English Regency period rosewood and brass writing slope, this is a fine piece remaining in excellent original condition. It opens to reveal an early tooled green ...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century British Regency Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Antique English Regency Period Rosewood Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1830
Antique English Regency Period Rosewood Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1830

Antique English Regency Period Rosewood Lap Desk Writing Slope Box, circa 1830

H 6 in W 14.75 in D 9.5 in
Antique 1830 Wooden Tambour Campaign Lap Roll Top Desk
Located in Stamford, CT
Antique 1830 wooden tambour lap campaign roll top desk. This is truly a unique piece when opened
Category

Antique 1830s English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Antique 1830 Wooden Tambour Campaign Lap Roll Top Desk
Antique 1830 Wooden Tambour Campaign Lap Roll Top Desk

Antique 1830 Wooden Tambour Campaign Lap Roll Top Desk

H 9 in W 19 in D 19 in
19th Century English Regency Rosewood Antique Traveling Lap Writing Desk Box
Located in Shippensburg, PA
the brass lock, allowing the desk to be opened into a full writing slope; two inkwells (originality
Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Desk Sets

Materials

Brass

19th Century English Regency Rosewood Antique Traveling Lap Writing Desk Box
19th Century English Regency Rosewood Antique Traveling Lap Writing Desk Box

19th Century English Regency Rosewood Antique Traveling Lap Writing Desk Box

H 6.5 in W 16.25 in D 9.63 in
Early 19th Century Pennsylvania School Masters Desk
Located in Los Angeles, CA
lap part of the desk has a wood trim attached for a book, to keep from sliding. This desk has a mellow
Category

Antique 19th Century American Folk Art Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Maple, Walnut

Early 19th Century Pennsylvania School Masters Desk
Early 19th Century Pennsylvania School Masters Desk

Early 19th Century Pennsylvania School Masters Desk

H 44 in W 29 in D 24 in
English Rosewood Box with Intricate Brass Motifs and Black Leather Writing Area
Located in Atlanta, GA
century, this English slope lap desk features a linear rosewood structure, beautifully adorned with
Category

Antique 19th Century English Decorative Boxes

Materials

Brass

English Rosewood Box with Intricate Brass Motifs and Black Leather Writing Area
English Rosewood Box with Intricate Brass Motifs and Black Leather Writing Area

English Rosewood Box with Intricate Brass Motifs and Black Leather Writing Area

H 6.25 in W 16 in D 9.635 in
English Lap Desk
Located in Sarasota, FL
An English rosewood lap desk with Turnbridge inlay, original red leather, two secret compartments
Category

Antique 19th Century English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

English Lap Desk
English Lap Desk

English Lap Desk

H 8.25 in W 18 in D 10.5 in
William IV Period Mahogany Lap-Desk
Located in Cambridge, GB
William IV period mahogany lap-desk; the hinged lid and writing-slope inlaid with cut-brass borders
Category

Antique 1830s English Desks and Writing Tables

William IV Period Mahogany Lap-Desk
William IV Period Mahogany Lap-Desk

William IV Period Mahogany Lap-Desk

H 0.1 in W 14 in D 10 in
Lap Desk Writing Slope Box Rosewood, circa 1840
Located in Brussels, BE
Lap desk writing slope box rosewood, circa 1840.
Category

Antique 1840s Louis Philippe Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Palisander

Lap Desk Writing Slope Box Rosewood, circa 1840
Lap Desk Writing Slope Box Rosewood, circa 1840

Lap Desk Writing Slope Box Rosewood, circa 1840

H 4.34 in W 9.45 in D 11.03 in
Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Lap Desk, Rosewood Mother-of-Pearl, 1870
Located in Vancouver, BC
Antique writing slope, Victorian lap desk, rosewood mother-of-pearl, 1870, B1041 Scotland 1870
Category

Antique 1870s Scottish Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mother-of-Pearl, Rosewood

Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Lap Desk, Rosewood Mother-of-Pearl, 1870
Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Lap Desk, Rosewood Mother-of-Pearl, 1870

Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Lap Desk, Rosewood Mother-of-Pearl, 1870

H 4 in W 12 in D 9 in
Victorian Brass Bound Lap Desk with Stand
Located in New York, NY
English Victorian rosewood lap desk with brass banding and details including campaign side handles
Category

Antique 19th Century English Desks and Writing Tables

Victorian Brass Bound Lap Desk with Stand
Victorian Brass Bound Lap Desk with Stand

Victorian Brass Bound Lap Desk with Stand

H 22 in W 18 in D 10 in
Traveling Lap Desk
Located in New York, NY
A traveling desk presented to Mr. William Sangster by the employees of Messrs. Durno and Cameron
Category

Antique 19th Century British Side Tables

Materials

Brass

Traveling Lap Desk
Traveling Lap Desk

Traveling Lap Desk

H 22 in W 19.5 in D 11 in
Burr Walnut and Brass Traveling Lap Desk
Located in Woodbury, CT
Very well dark grained burr walnut and detail engraved gilt mounts. Rounded top lifts up and back, slant front drops down. Covered in deep purple velvet. Back section of writing slan...
Category

Antique 1870s English Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Burr Walnut and Brass Traveling Lap Desk
Burr Walnut and Brass Traveling Lap Desk

Burr Walnut and Brass Traveling Lap Desk

H 7 in W 14.25 in D 10.75 in
B-21 Bauhaus Desk Designed by Marcel Breuer for Thonet
Located in Los Angeles, CA
as desk for a lap top or as an interesting side table.
Category

20th Century German Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

B-21 Bauhaus Desk Designed by Marcel Breuer for Thonet
B-21 Bauhaus Desk Designed by Marcel Breuer for Thonet

B-21 Bauhaus Desk Designed by Marcel Breuer for Thonet

H 27.25 in W 34.5 in D 17.75 in
Writing Slope, Antique Victorian Lap Desk, Marine Walnut Brass Desk, 1870
Located in Vancouver, BC
Writing slope, antique Victorian lap desk, marine walnut brass, Scotland, 1870, B1081. Scotland
Category

Antique 1870s Scottish Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Writing Slope, Antique Victorian Lap Desk, Marine Walnut Brass Desk, 1870
Writing Slope, Antique Victorian Lap Desk, Marine Walnut Brass Desk, 1870

Writing Slope, Antique Victorian Lap Desk, Marine Walnut Brass Desk, 1870

H 8.5 in W 19.5 in D 10 in
Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Mahogany Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1768
Located in Vancouver, BC
Antique writing slope, Victorian mahogany campaign lap desk, Antique Furniture, Scotland 1870
Category

Antique 1870s Scottish Victorian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Mahogany Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1768
Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Mahogany Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1768

Antique Writing Slope, Victorian Mahogany Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1768

H 6.5 in W 18 in D 10.5 in
Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Stationary Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1890Y
Located in Vancouver, BC
Antique Victorian writing slope, brass bound stationary lap desk, Scotland 1870, B1890Y Scotland
Category

Antique 1870s Scottish Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Stationary Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1890Y
Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Stationary Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1890Y

Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Stationary Lap Desk, Scotland 1870, B1890Y

H 7 in W 16 in D 10 in
Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Brass Bound, Lap Desk, Scotland, 1870
Located in Vancouver, BC
Antique Victorian writing slope, brass bound, lap desk, Scotland 1870, B1727y Scotland 1870
Category

Antique 1870s Scottish Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Brass Bound, Lap Desk, Scotland, 1870
Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Brass Bound, Lap Desk, Scotland, 1870

Antique Victorian Writing Slope, Brass Bound, Lap Desk, Scotland, 1870

H 6.5 in W 20 in D 10.5 in
Chippendale Partners Desk
Located in Lawrenceburg, TN
and bracket feet. This desk features a lap drawer, as well as three drawers on either side, with the
Category

Vintage 1980s English Chippendale Desks and Writing Tables

Chippendale Partners Desk
Chippendale Partners Desk

Chippendale Partners Desk

H 30 in W 72 in D 48 in

People Also Browsed

Antique Victorian Coromandel Wooden Lady's Gentlemans Vanity Jewelry Casket Box
Located in Dublin, Ireland
An Absolutely Stunning & Rare early Victorian well figured brass mounted Coromandel Ladies or Gentleman’s Vanity Jewellery Casket of generous proportions. Third quarter of the Ninete...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Brass

Antique Victorian Coromandel Wooden Lady's Gentlemans Vanity Jewelry Casket Box
Antique Victorian Coromandel Wooden Lady's Gentlemans Vanity Jewelry Casket Box

Antique Victorian Coromandel Wooden Lady's Gentlemans Vanity Jewelry Casket Box

H 7 in W 12 in D 9 in
18th century oil sketches for a Baroque interior - a pair
Located in London, GB
A FEAST OF THE GODS WITH VENUS AND BACCHUS Collections: With Appleby Brothers, London, June 1957; Hazlitt, Gooden & Fox, London, 1961; John and Eileen Harris, acquired from the abo...
Category

Early 18th Century Baroque Figurative Paintings

Materials

Oil, Canvas

18th century oil sketches for a Baroque interior - a pair
18th century oil sketches for a Baroque interior - a pair

Louis Chéron
18th century oil sketches for a Baroque interior - a pair, Circa 1710

H 36 in W 48.13 in
Antique Derby School Paneled Oak Roll Top Desk with Full Interior, C1900
By Derby Desk Company
Located in Big Flats, NY
An antique roll top desk offers paneled quarter sawn oak construction with s-top opening to full interior over base with flanking drawer towers having foliate carved pulls and centra...
Category

Early 20th Century American Desks

Materials

Oak

Antique Derby School Paneled Oak Roll Top Desk with Full Interior, C1900
Antique Derby School Paneled Oak Roll Top Desk with Full Interior, C1900

Antique Derby School Paneled Oak Roll Top Desk with Full Interior, C1900

H 50.5 in W 60 in D 32 in
Rare English Regency Writing Desk With Decorative Brass Trim by Wells & Lambe
By John Lambe
Located in Reading, Berkshire
A Beautiful Handcrafted 19th Century Hardwood Veneer Writing Slope With A Tooled Purple Leather Writing Liner. Item Featured Brass Carry Handles & Is Finished With A Decorative Brass...
Category

Antique 19th Century British Regency Desk Sets

Materials

Brass

Rare English Regency Writing Desk With Decorative Brass Trim by Wells & Lambe
Rare English Regency Writing Desk With Decorative Brass Trim by Wells & Lambe

Rare English Regency Writing Desk With Decorative Brass Trim by Wells & Lambe

H 4.93 in W 14.18 in D 9.85 in
French Louis XVI Secretaire Abattant / Secretary desk, circa 1800
Located in Lucenec, SK
The secrétaire à abbatant or fall front desk is nearly identical to the desk 5th President James Monroe brought back from France in 1797. These desks are elegant examples of the popu...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century French Louis XVI Desks

Materials

Brass

French Louis XVI Secretaire Abattant / Secretary desk, circa 1800
French Louis XVI Secretaire Abattant / Secretary desk, circa 1800

French Louis XVI Secretaire Abattant / Secretary desk, circa 1800

H 57.09 in W 36.23 in D 14.97 in
French 19th Century Boulle Cave a Liqueur
By Baccarat
Located in Mérida, YU
French 19th century Louis Philippe Boulle cave a liqueur. Made of Tortoiseshell, brass, and ebonized Fruitwood. Inlaid floral elements on a Tortoiseshell and wood. The top lifts ...
Category

Antique 19th Century French Louis Philippe Barware

Materials

Brass

French 19th Century Boulle Cave a Liqueur
French 19th Century Boulle Cave a Liqueur

French 19th Century Boulle Cave a Liqueur

H 30 in W 35 in D 26 in
English Zebra Wood Military Campaign Writing Desk, Circa 1820
Located in Charleston, SC
English zebra wood military campaign writing desk with brass bound molded edges, original recessed side handles, fitted leather interior with tooling and retains the original crystal...
Category

Antique 1820s American Campaign Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Crystal, Brass

English Zebra Wood Military Campaign Writing Desk, Circa 1820
English Zebra Wood Military Campaign Writing Desk, Circa 1820

English Zebra Wood Military Campaign Writing Desk, Circa 1820

H 5.5 in W 14 in D 9 in
English Lap Desk
Located in Stamford, CT
Beautiful Early 19th century rosewood lap desk. Made in England, circa 1830. Has brass corners and brown leather writing surface with gold tooling. Left side has a concealed or "secr...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Inkwells

Materials

Rosewood

English Lap Desk
English Lap Desk

English Lap Desk

H 6 in W 15.75 in D 10 in
Regency Brass Bound Rosewood Fitted Traveling Dressing Box
Located in Huntington, NY
Regency Brass Bound Rosewood Fitted traveling , dressing box With fitted interior, containing 2 fragrance bottles. Silver lidded makeup Jars, a mirror & a tooled leather compartme...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Decorative Boxes

Materials

Silver, Brass

Regency Brass Bound Rosewood Fitted Traveling Dressing Box
Regency Brass Bound Rosewood Fitted Traveling Dressing Box

Regency Brass Bound Rosewood Fitted Traveling Dressing Box

H 4.88 in W 11.75 in D 8.5 in
Exceptional Chinese Export Gilt Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Decorated Lap Desk
Located in Atlanta, GA
Chinese export, circa 1820. An exceptional quality and rare form. Featuring figural landscape decorations in gilt to the main black lacquer doors, which open to reveal 13 separated c...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Chinese Chinese Export Lacquer

Materials

Giltwood, Lacquer

Exceptional Chinese Export Gilt Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Decorated Lap Desk
Exceptional Chinese Export Gilt Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Decorated Lap Desk

Exceptional Chinese Export Gilt Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Decorated Lap Desk

H 5.75 in W 23.25 in D 13.625 in
Campaign Roll Top Desk on Stand
Located in Palm Beach, FL
A 19th century diminutive, antique, mahogany campaign roll top desk on stand with brass plaque, brass lined case, string inlay, intriguing pop up hidden compartments, brass recessed ...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Campaign Desks

Materials

Mahogany

Campaign Roll Top Desk on Stand
Campaign Roll Top Desk on Stand

Campaign Roll Top Desk on Stand

H 40 in W 23 in D 23 in
Victorian Nécessaire de Voyage
Located in New Orleans, LA
A work of extraordinary craftsmanship, this exquisite English vanity case is as much an item of luxury as it is of necessity. Known as a nécessaire de voyage, the case features a lux...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Velvet, Glass, Wood

Victorian Nécessaire de Voyage
Victorian Nécessaire de Voyage

Victorian Nécessaire de Voyage

H 6 in W 12 in D 9 in
Antique Travelling Vanity Case, English, Coromandel, Jewellery Box, Victorian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is an antique travelling vanity case. An English, coromandel jewellery box, dating to the early Victorian period, circa 1850. Striking example with a suite of wonderful storage...
Category

Antique 1850s British Early Victorian Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Glass, Wood

Antique Travelling Vanity Case, English, Coromandel, Jewellery Box, Victorian
Antique Travelling Vanity Case, English, Coromandel, Jewellery Box, Victorian

Antique Travelling Vanity Case, English, Coromandel, Jewellery Box, Victorian

H 7.09 in W 12.01 in D 9.26 in
Fine English 19th Century Mahogany Secretary-Desk
Located in Long Island City, NY
A fine English table with a "hidden" writing desk/ secretary opening via three articulated compartments.
Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Edwardian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Fine English 19th Century Mahogany Secretary-Desk
Fine English 19th Century Mahogany Secretary-Desk

Fine English 19th Century Mahogany Secretary-Desk

H 37.01 in W 38.59 in D 23.23 in
19th Century Chinese Chippendale Pagoda Cabinet
By Thomas Chippendale
Located in Houston, TX
A stunning and rare 19th Century English Chinese Chippendale pagoda cabinets. This highly stylized hand carved mahogany cabinets features, glass shelving, pagoda gabled roofs, classi...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Chinese Chippendale Vitrines

Materials

Glass, Mahogany

19th Century Chinese Chippendale Pagoda Cabinet
19th Century Chinese Chippendale Pagoda Cabinet

19th Century Chinese Chippendale Pagoda Cabinet

H 102 in W 84.5 in D 22.5 in
19th Century French Boulle / Napoleon III Liqueur Cave Box
Located in Vilnius, LT
Antique French liqueur cave box with inlaid brass and and tortoise shell marquetry decor, a lift top door and swing side doors, polished surface, bronze legs. Inside there is a wood...
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century French Dry Bars

Materials

Crystal, Bronze, Brass

19th Century French Boulle / Napoleon III Liqueur Cave Box
19th Century French Boulle / Napoleon III Liqueur Cave Box

19th Century French Boulle / Napoleon III Liqueur Cave Box

H 10.24 in W 13.39 in D 11.03 in
Tables Under $2,000
Antique and Vintage Tables
19th Century Tables
Wood Tables
European Tables
Tables on Sale
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Lap And Portable Desks", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Lap and Portable Desks For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are several options of lap and portable desks available for sale. Frequently made of wood, metal and brass, all lap and portable desks available were constructed with great care. Lap and portable desks are generally popular furniture pieces, but Victorian, Regency and Louis XV styles are often sought at 1stDibs. Some lap and portable desks are too large for some spaces — a variety of smaller lap and portable desks, measuring 12 inches across, are available at 1stDibs.

How Much are Lap and Portable Desks?

Prices for lap and portable desks start at $725 and top out at $3,800 with the average selling for $1,998.

Finding the Right Desks And Writing Tables for You

Choosing the perfect writing desk or writing table is a profoundly personal journey, one that people have been embarking upon for centuries.

Queen Atossa of Persia, from her writing table circa 500 B.C., is said to have been the originator of the art of handwritten letters. Hers was reportedly the first in a long and colorful history of penned correspondence that grew in popularity alongside literacy. The demand for suitable writing desks, which would serve the composer of the letters as well as ensure the comfort of the recipient naturally followed, and the design of these necessary furnishings has evolved throughout history.

Once people began to seek freedom from the outwardly ornate styles of the walnut and rosewood writing desks and drafting tables introduced in the name of Queen Victoria and King Louis XV, radical shifts occurred, such as those that materialized during the Art Nouveau period, when designers longed to produce furniture inspired by the natural world’s beauty. A prime example is the work of the famous late-19th-century Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí — his rolltop desk featured deep side drawers and was adorned with carved motifs that paid tribute to nature. Gaudí regularly combined structural precision with decorative elements, creating beautiful pieces of furniture in wood and metal.

Soon afterward, preferences for sleek, geometric, stylized forms in furniture that saw an emphasis on natural wood grains and traditional craftsmanship took hold. Today, Art Deco desks are still favored by designers who seek to infuse interiors with an air of luxury. One of the most prominent figures of the Art Deco movement was French decorator and furniture designer Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann. With his use of neoclassical motifs as well as expensive and exotic materials such as imported dark woods and inlays of precious metals for his writing desks, Ruhlmann came to symbolize good taste and modernity.

The rise in appreciation for Scandinavian modernism continues to influence the design of contemporary writing desks. It employs the “no fuss” or “less is more” approach to creating a tasteful, sophisticated space. Sweden’s master cabinetmaker Bruno Mathsson created gallery-worthy designs that are as functional as they are beautiful. Finnish architect Alvar Aalto never viewed himself as an artist, but, like Mathsson, his furniture designs reflected a fondness for organic materials and a humanistic approach. Danish designers such as Hans Wegner introduced elegant shapes and lines to mid-century desks and writing tables, often working in oak and solid teak.

From vintage desks to contemporary styles, 1stDibs offers a broad spectrum of choices for conducting all personal and business writing and reading activities.

Questions About Lap and Portable Desks
Prices for most lap and portable desks on 1stdibs are negotiable. You’ll see a "Make an Offer" button on the item details page, indicating that the seller is willing to consider a lower price. It’s not uncommon for customers to get 15–25% off the list price after negotiating. See our tips for negotiating like a pro.
Only experienced, professional sellers who have applied and been thoroughly vetted by our team of experts can sell lap and portable desks and other quality items on our site. Learn more about becoming a 1stdibs seller.
The 1stdibs Buyer Protection Guarantee provides coverage for qualified purchases in the unlikely event that the item arrives not as described or is damaged. We’ll work with you and the seller to find a resolution, ensuring your satisfaction. View details
We have partnerships with the world's best shipping providers to facilitate seamless and fully-insured delivery from the seller's location directly to you, wherever you are in the world. Our logistics team is comprised of dedicated members who arrange all the details with our partners, servicing and supporting all shipments. Learn more about shipping on 1stdibs.
For your convenience, we offer multiple payment methods, including all major credit cards and PayPal. For many purchases we also offer financing options or wire transfer. Learn more about payment options on 1stdibs.

Read More

20 Inviting Dining Rooms Perfectly Arranged for Entertaining

Top interior designers show — and tell — us how to create delectable spaces for hosting dinner parties.

This Alain Delon–Designed Table Is Almost as Handsome as He Was

Fans of the French film star may be surprised to learn that he had a flair for furniture with sleek lines and disco-era flash.

Uchronia’s Plant Stand Gives Pots a Pretty Perch with All the Trimmings

Like other pieces in the firm’s Candy Box collection, the cheerful limited-edition design showcases French craft.

The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home

Whether you’re just moving in or ready to give your home a makeover, our guide will give you pointers on tables that are fitting for every room, nook and hallway.

Is Lionel Jadot the Willy Wonka of Upcycled Belgian Design?

From his massive collaborative workshop in a former paper factory, the designer concocts funky furniture from disused materials, as well as luxe hotel interiors like the new Mix Brussels.

Inspired by the Cosmos, Sandra Nunnerley’s Nova Table Has a Futuristic Feel

The designer’s innovative use of an unexpected material gives this console a lift.

This 19th-Century Gilded Desk Displays a Fanciful Kingdom in Marquetry

The stately piece brings both gravitas and whimsy to any work space.

In Guadalajara, These Luscious Side Tables Are Chiseled from Volcanic Rock

Use them as tables or stools, indoors or out.