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Chesterfield Desks and Writing Tables

CHESTERFIELD STYLE

The expansion of the British Empire brought Chesterfield sofas around the world, such as in Canada, where the word “chesterfield” refers to any type of sofa. Antique Chesterfield-style furniture now includes seating in a range of sizes and aesthetics, from velvet love seats and linen-upholstered club chairs to ottomans accompanying classic leather sofas.

Popular lore dates the Chesterfield sofa to Philip Dormer Stanhope, fourth earl of Chesterfield. The arbiter of taste and manners in 18th-century England was best known for publishing guides on how to behave in society to attain success. The story goes that he commissioned a sofa in the mid-1700s designed so he could sit on it while not wrinkling his clothes. He later bequeathed it to his godson, and the seating style spread in popularity, eventually becoming an icon of British interior design.

Although this origin is not recorded, it resonates with the iconic sofa’s urbane sophistication. Traditionally made with tall rolled arms the same height as the back, deep buttoning on dark brown leather upholstery, tacked trim and an imposing yet elegant profile, it evokes English estates and the gentlemen’s clubs of London. It became a staple amid the Victorian era’s embrace of comfort. Tartan versions were in Queen Victoria’s drawing room at Balmoral Castle, giving the space a Scottish flair.

Some Chesterfield sofas are slimmed down in shape, others have taller legs for a lighter appearance. And while leather Chesterfield sofas are a more common variant — and can easily elevate a workspace as luxury office furniture — a velvet Chesterfield sofa possesses a singular chameleonic property, softening and emboldening the spaces it inhabits. Whether it’s the focal point of a living room, hotel lobby or trendy restaurant, the Chesterfield remains a status symbol, channeling the sophisticated tastes of its namesake.

Find a collection of antique Chesterfield seating, including sofas, settees, armchairs and lounge chairs, on 1stDibs.

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Style: Chesterfield
Large original 20th Century Classical English Writing Desk, circa 1910-1920
Located in Berlin, DE
Solid wood and mahogany stained body. Leather-covered worktop. Freely adjustable in the room. Desk consists of three parts (2 containers + worktop). The desk is an absolute classic a...
Category

20th Century English Chesterfield Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Large original 20th Century Classical English Writing Desk, circa 1910-1920
Large original 20th Century Classical English Writing Desk, circa 1910-1920

Large original 20th Century Classical English Writing Desk, circa 1910-1920

$2,279
English Regency Desk with Foldable Desk / Writing Table 20th Century
Located in Berlin, DE
Extraordinary English regency desk with hinged sides and red leather top. 5 drawers in the front and 5 panels on the back. The leather top is provided with very thick embossing. The ...
Category

20th Century English Chesterfield Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

English Regency Desk with Foldable Desk / Writing Table 20th Century
English Regency Desk with Foldable Desk / Writing Table 20th Century

English Regency Desk with Foldable Desk / Writing Table 20th Century

$1,568
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H 29 in W 48 in D 27 in
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H 29.625 in W 44.875 in D 22.625 in
20th Century French Writing Table Hand Carved and Painted in Louise xvi Style
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20th Century French Writing Table Hand Carved and Painted in Louise xvi Style
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H 29.53 in W 35.44 in D 23.63 in
19th Century Regency brass inlaid writing desk
Located in Debenham, Suffolk
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Materials

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$5,699
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Mid 20th Century Vintage Heywood Wakefield Writing Desk
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H 30 in W 44 in D 22 in
19th Century Unique Restored Austrian Biedermeier Maple Writing Desk, 1830s
Located in Brandys nad Labem, Středočeský kraj
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Small Ladies’ Writing Desk, 20th Century
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Previously Available Items
Large Classic 20th Century English Writing Desk mahogany
Located in Berlin, DE
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Category

20th Century Chesterfield Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Large Classic 20th Century English Writing Desk mahogany
Large Classic 20th Century English Writing Desk mahogany

Large Classic 20th Century English Writing Desk mahogany

H 29.53 in W 73.23 in D 42.92 in

Chesterfield desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Chesterfield desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage desks and writing tables created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include tables and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Chesterfield desks and writing tables made in a specific country, there are England, Europe, and United Kingdom pieces for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for desks and writing tables differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $1,662 and tops out at $4,349 while the average work can sell for $3,005.

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