Victorian Writing Tables - Antique Desk Guide

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(Above photo - Antique Victorian writing table )

Victoria writing tables are some of the most famous pieces of furniture that emerged during the last half of the 19th century. They were one variant of office furniture that included the roll-top desk, davenport desk, and the one-sided pedestal desk. The writing table would have smaller drawers for keeping materials like pens, pencils, and ink in some cases. They can find use in the home office, library, and virtually any other space where there was the need for it.

Features of Victorian Writing Tables

(Above photo - Mahogany Victorian writing table )

Victorian writing tables had distinct features, just like other furniture pieces produced during that time. The following are some of the things you should look for when trying to identify Victorian writing tables.

1. Wood and Materials

(Above photo - Gillows mahogany writing table )

Furniture made during the Victorian period featured a wide range of woods, including mahogany, oak, satinwood, and pine. However, mahogany was the most preferred material for making writing tables. It is elegant and durable, making it suitable for dedicated office tables. The finishing on the tables was in the form of amboyna, rosewood, and walnut. While some writing tables served in the office, others were designated as gaming tables for playing cards among family members.

2. Decorations

The makers of Victorian writing tables borrowed heavily from their experience with French and Chinese designs. Thus, they had elaborate ornamentation, embellishments, and carvings. For instance, it was not uncommon to find tables with carved wood running along the edges. Some of the most common shapes in the carvings include cherubs, bows, ribbons, fruits, trailing vines, shapely leaves, and fleur-de-leis. Sometimes the wood was finished, painted, or gold-gilded, depending on the furniture maker.

3. Other Features

(Above photo - Victorian Writing Table - Antique Desk 1880 )

Victorian writing tables have other distinct features, depending on the designer and furniture maker. For example, some existed in more straightforward pedestal desks, others had smaller drawers, while the rest had no drawers. Simple tables have four cabriole legs, while the more complex one may have more than four legs. The writing tables had wooden knobs or other types of handles for opening and closing on the drawers. Because of its functions, the writing table also had a blotter, inkwell, powder, and sand tray. The table-top was covered with leather, which was friendly to writing with fountain pens or quills.

Uses of Victorian Writing Tables

(Above photo - Victorian Desk - Rosewood Circa 1880 Writing Table )

Writing tables can serve many more purposes in any room of your home. It is essential to keep your eyes open even as you try out the following:

1. Living Room

A writing table can sit in the living room and serve as a side table. You can use it to hold art pieces, lamps, remote, and other accessories. The table can also work well for serving drinks.

2. Hallway or Entryway

Another way to use a writing table is as a console table in the hallway or entryway. You can use it to hold keys, display art pieces, or the place for keeping the small change.

Conclusion

(Above photo - Carved Victorian Desk Oak Writing Table 1880 )

Victorian writing tables are highly functional pieces of furniture that every homeowner should consider buying. Make sure you think about the features discussed above before buying one.