If you would like to know more about the
history of the desk and what to look for when choosing the right
desk for you here is our brief guide.
What Affects the Value of a Desk?
When buying an antique desk, age, originality, quality and
size are the factors that determine price.
Most old desks have been restored at least once, particularly
those from the early 19th century and Victorian periods. Look
for sympathetic restoration undertaken in a traditional manner
with a French polished or waxed finish.
Desks with original leather writing surface are hard to come
by and is highly prized. We aim during restoration to retain
where possible as much as we can from the original, but the
main areas of wear, leather writing surface, knobs, handles
and plinths are often beyond recovery. We replace missing wooden
knobs by making new to the same pattern and from similar timber.
Look at the quality of the veneer, earlier in the 19th century
quality timber was more readily available and veneers were cut
more thickly and tend to have more attractive figuring.
A good indicator of quality are the drawer linings, those made
in oak, mahogany and cedar are generally best.
Most are of dovetailed construction, and machine made. If the
desk has the original locks those stamped with the manufacturers
name are a good indicator of quality.
What Are The Problem Areas?
There are a few things which you should consider
when viewing a desk.
Firstly consider whether the desk has been made from
some other piece of furniture?
Because of their popularity many smaller desks and writing
tables have been adapted from other items of furniture such
as dressing tables or washstands. These are often fixed peices,
as in the kneehole desk, rather than two pedestals and top,
and are not often not polished at the back.
Does the veneer, or timber of the top match that of
the base?
Does the desk or writing table look in proportion? Look at
drawer linings, during the 19th century they were not usually
made of plywood.
There should be signs of use inside the drawers, ink stains
and wear marks. All the surfaces of the desk should show signs
of wear, knocks and bumps even if it has been recently restored.
These are part of the character of the desk showing it has been
well used over many many years. Most have been in constant use
for over a century and if a desk looks brand new it is probably
is reproduction.
This information is designed to act as a guide and is not totally
comprehensive. Should you require further assistance please
contact us.
We will be happy to answer queries of all types concerning
desks and associated items.
