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Set of Three Antique American School Desks
$2,840per set
£2,162.60per set
€2,490.18per set
CA$4,024.53per set
A$4,328.96per set
CHF 2,313.52per set
MX$51,026.08per set
NOK 29,168.08per set
SEK 26,665.16per set
DKK 18,605.82per set
About the Item
This curated set of three authentic American school desks spans the late 19th to early 20th century and illustrates the evolution of classroom furniture from ornamental cast iron to streamlined Progressive-Era steel construction.
The group includes:
One cast-iron and hardwood desk by Buffalo Metal Company, circa 1895–1915
Two desks by American Seating Company, circa 1915–1935, including a lift-top example with interior book compartment
Together, the three desks form a cohesive and historically significant ensemble, well suited for collectors, designers, libraries, schools, or institutional and residential interiors seeking authentic Americana.
Condition
All three desks are structurally sound and fully functional, with solid frames, stable seating, intact writing surfaces, and working mechanisms where applicable.
Original metal finishes show areas of paint loss, scuffing, and surface wear consistent with age and classroom use.
Wooden desktops and seats display scratches, ink marks, and light scoring from decades of service.
No structural damage or compromises observed; wear is cosmetic and honest, contributing to the character and authenticity of the pieces.
These desks have not been over-restored. Their surfaces reflect genuine use while remaining strong, usable, and visually compelling.
Details
Makers: Buffalo Metal Company; American Seating Company
Origin: United States
Date: circa 1900–1935
Materials: Cast iron, pressed steel, hardwood
Configuration: Three individual student desks, offered as a set
A rare opportunity to acquire a matched group of original American school desks that together tell a clear design and cultural story—from Victorian craftsmanship to Progressive-Era efficiency. Ideal as a unified installation or statement grouping, with presence, provenance, and continued functional life.
Dimensions
Buffalo Metal Company
Weight: Approx. 35 lbs
Height: 24 inches
Width: 25 inches
Depth: 18 inches
American Seating Company (Fixed Top Desk)
Weight: Approx. 45 lbs
Height: 27 inches
Width: 21 inches
Depth: 28 inches
American Seating Company (Lift Top Desk)
Weight: Approx. 45 lbs
Height: 27 inches
Width: 19 inches
Depth: 29 inches
- Creator:American Seating (Maker)
- Dimensions:Height: 27 in (68.58 cm)Width: 21 in (53.34 cm)Depth: 28 in (71.12 cm)Seat Height: 15 in (38.1 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 3
- Style:American Classical (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Circa 1900s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Please look closely as photos attempt to capture cosmetic fixes needed.
- Seller Location:Omaha, NE
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU10139248329922
About the Seller
5.0
Vetted Professional Seller
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1stDibs seller since 2024
5 sales on 1stDibs
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Omaha, NE
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