Roll top desks originated in the late 19th century and quickly gained popularity in the Victorian era, where they became a staple of domestic style. They continued to be popular through the Art Nouveau and Edwardian periods, but declined in use after the First World War.
The Arts & Crafts and Art Deco movements briefly revived the style, but by the 1950s, the style had become more of a niche style. Roll top desks saw a resurgence in popularity in the 1990s, with simple, kitschy versions being popularly used as home office furniture in the late 2000s.
While the style is still somewhat uncommon, many modern furniture makers now offer updated versions that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics.
What is considered antique desk?
An antique desk is a type of furniture that is more than 100 years old. It can include a variety of styles, materials, and eras, such as Victorian, mission, arts & crafts, and more. Most antique desks are made primarily from wood, such as oak, mahogany, walnut, and pine.
Generally speaking, an antique desk was either built by hand, or was crafted in a factory, depending upon its era and origin. Many antique desks also feature inlaid designs and ornate carvings, making them a desirable addition to any home or office.
When it comes to antiques, it is important to take into consideration the age, condition, and originality of the piece. Many antique desks may contain unique features, such as hidden compartments, intricate carving, and even drawers containing secret writings.
It is also important to ensure that any pieces purchased are authentic antiques, rather than having been re-painted or artificially aged.
Collectors and antique enthusiasts alike are always on the lookout for a rare or beautiful antique desk, and its from this type of furniture that a valuable and treasured piece can be built. With the proper care, antique desks can last for generations, becoming a valuable heirloom that reminds one of the past.
How do you date an antique desk?
Dating an antique desk can be an exciting and rewarding process. The first step should be to identify what type of material the desk is made from, as this will help to determine the age of the desk. Common materials used to make desks include wood, iron, and bronze.
Next, look at the hardware, such as hinges, locks, and drawers. Evaluating the type of hardware and its age can give you an approximate age for the desk. It is also important to examine the condition of the desk, as well as any markings or stamps that may have been made by the artisans who made it.
Finally, research the manufacturer or maker of the desk, if possible, as this can help to narrow down the age and origin of the desk.
What is the difference between antique and vintage?
The difference between antique and vintage is that antique items are generally at least 100 years old and are considered collectible. The term “antique” typically refers to items that are highly collectible and have a high monetary value.
Vintage is a more general term used to refer to items that are at least 20 years old, but not necessarily collectible. Vintage items may still have a monetary value and even sentimental value, but typically are not as valuable as antiques.
How do I know if my antique furniture is valuable?
Determining the value of antique furniture can be a bit tricky, as the market fluctuates based on current demand and supply. However, there are some general tips you can use to help you understand potential value of an item.
The best place to start is by assessing the condition of the furniture. A piece that is in its original condition with few signs of wear will be more valuable than an item that has been altered or repaired, as original condition is a key factor for most collectors.
Secondly, research the origin and history of the furniture piece. Identify the style and period that it’s from, research similar pieces and compare the condition, materials, craftsmanship and features.
Talk to an experienced antique furniture dealer, or to a museum or auction house curator to get more details. You can also use online resources such as local classifieds, estate sales, and online auction destinations.
Finally, never rely on any single source of information. Establishing the value of an antique piece of furniture requires multiple sources of information and research.
What is the value of an old school desk?
The value of an old school desk will depend on a variety of factors, such as its age, condition, and style. Websites such as Etsy may help you determine the value of your school desk, as many antique desks are listed for sale.
Generally speaking, however, an old school desk that is in good condition can be worth anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on age, condition and style. Older desks, especially those from the 19th century and from certain eras, such as the Victorian era, will fetch a higher price.
Most of these desks, which date from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, have intricate carvings, ornate designs and layers of lacquer or paint, which gives them a unique look. Painted school desks, meanwhile, will sell for anywhere from $100 to $400, or more, depending on their age and condition.
In addition, a desk from a well-known manufacturer may also add to its value, as will any maker’s marks or engravings. Finally, a desk made from more expensive materials, such as mahogany, rosewood, oak or walnut, may also fetch an even higher price.
What were Victorian desks like?
Victorian desks were typically large and ornate, reflecting the wealth and luxury of the Victorian era. The types of wood used for Victorian desks included mahogany, oak, rosewood, and cherry, with elaborately carved designs and detailing.
Leather, brass, and glass were all common details used to give the desks a more authoritative and ornate appearance. Desks from this era typically featured roll-top lids, a writing surface, and a few drawers and compartments to store documents.
Notable features included compartments created specifically to store ink bottles and separate spaces for books and papers, along with a sliding door to protect them. Many desks also had secret drawers hidden beneath false bottoms, or releasing mechanisms activated by a button or a nail.
What is the roll on a roll-top desk called?
The roll on a roll-top desk is called a tambour. This is a French word that means “drum”, and it refers to the drum shape of the roll top. The roll top is usually made up of narrow slats of wood that are connected together in a spiral shape.
When the desk is not being used, the entire roll top can be lifted up and slid back, making it convenient and easy to store items. When the desk is opened, the tambour slides back in place and can be lifted partially in order to access items stored within the desk.
Historically, tambour desks were used by those working in places where space was limited or secrecy was desired, such as government offices and laboratories. Today, roll-top desks are still popular and are often seen in home offices or bedrooms as a design statement.
When did they stop making roll top desks?
Roll top desks became popular in the 1800s, during the Victorian era, and were commonly made of solid oak, along with other hardwoods. It was common to see pictures or trinkets stored within the upper compartment of the desk, and many had small drawers that were positioned beneath the tambour.
The popularity of the desks continued into the 20th century, but eventually waned due to the modern office technology which replaced the need for the large desk drawers. By the early 2000s, antique roll top desks were becoming increasingly rare and harder to find.
However, with the resurgence of vintage style furniture and around 2018, there was a rebound in the production of roll top desks, including reproductions of the classic design. Some furniture stores still carry them today, however, most roll top desks sold today are antique or antique reproductions.
How do I know if my roll top desk is an antique?
If you are unsure whether or not your roll top desk is an antique, there are a few key things to look for. First, you can check the desk’s construction: m any antique desks include dovetail joints and wooden screws, while more modern desks often have metal screws or staples.
You can also check for any labeling on the desk indicating a maker or a production date, which can help to identify the age. Finally, antiques typically feature a certain kind of patina that is distinctive and warm, as opposed to the blander finish of a mass-produced piece.
With a little bit of research and perhaps an expert opinion, you should be able to accurately determine whether your roll top desk is an antique.
What is a piece of furniture called a secretary?
A secretary is a type of furniture that was popular in the 1700s and 1800s. It is typically made of wood and features several drawers and compartments, making it a perfect storage piece. Its name comes from the French word “secrétaire” meaning “secretary” or “person who keeps secrets”.
The top part of the secretary typically functions as a work surface with a pull-down door. This door is often used to keep documents and other items out of sight. Below the work surface, two doors usually open to reveal shelves, drawers, and compartments with dividers.
Although the piece was primarily used to hide documents and writing supplies, it was also used to store books, clothing, and other items.
Today, secretaries are often used in dining rooms and home offices and are perfect for today’s modern living rooms. Despite changes in furniture design, this classic piece of furniture is still highly functional and stylish.
How do you put a tambour door back on track?
Putting a tambour door back on track is a relatively simple process, but it does require some patience and care. First, gather any tools that might be needed such as a pliers, screwdriver, hammer, or level.
Start by ensuring the door track is clean and clear of any debris or dirt. Next, inspect the track for signs of damage or signs of wear and tear. If the track is damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
Once the track is properly inspected, it may be necessary to adjust the position of the tambour door track and brackets to fit the door.
Once the track and brackets are correctly positioned, the door should be ready to install. Carefully slide the tambour door into the track and secure it with the wing nuts provided. Make sure the door is secure and level before tightening the nuts.
Repeat these steps for the other side of the tambour door. After both sides are complete and secure, check the tambour door for proper alignment and clearance with the door frame. Once the door is properly installed, you should be able to open and close the tambour door and the door should be back on track.
How do you put a desk drawer back in?
Putting a desk drawer back in can be a fairly straightforward process if you have the right tools and materials.
First you will need to make sure you have the necessary supplies:
•Desk drawer and corresponding hardware
•Screwdriver (Phillips head or flathead)
•Tape measure
•Pencil
Once you have gathered all the materials, you should begin by taking measurements. Place the drawer inside the opening to measure the distance between the sides of the drawer and top of the opening. You will also want to record the position of the screws that connect the drawer slides to the frame of the desk.
After taking measurements, loosen the screws on either side of the drawer slides. Place the drawer slides in the same positions that they were originally. You may need to either add or remove screws, depending on the size of the drawer slides.
Once the drawer slides are in place, carefully place the drawer in the opening and push it until it is flush against the front of the desk. Check the measurements to make sure it is even. If it is not, adjust the drawer slides as needed.
Once the drawer is in the correct spot, tighten the screws and replace the screwdriver. You are now ready to use the drawer.
How can I make my roll top desk slide easier?
Making sure that your roll top desk slides properly is essential for its longevity and preventing damage. Dust and dirt can accumulate in the grooves over time and cause friction, making it difficult to open and close the desk.
Begin by opening the desk until it cannot open any further and vacuuming the inside and outside grooves of the desk with an upholstery attachment or a soft-bristled brush. Next, apply furniture polish or wax to the exposed wood.
Use a soft cloth to apply the wax in long, smooth strokes. Allow the wax to dry for fifteen minutes before buffing the wax with a soft, dry cloth. Wait another 20 minutes before closing the desk. This should help make it slide easier.
If the desk still feels difficult to open and close, insert a thin piece of wax paper between the roll top and the grooves to reduce the amount of friction.
How do you remove drawers without levers?
It is possible to remove drawers from cabinets or other pieces of furniture without levers in a few different ways.
The simplest option is to use a flathead screwdriver and insert it between the drawer and cabinet. Then you can use a slight levering motion to pry the drawer away from the cabinet and pull it out. If the drawer has a lip on the front, you can also slide a screwdriver into that lip and use the same levering motion to pull the drawer out.
If the drawer has wooden pegs, you may need to use a different method. You can use a hammer and a flathead screwdriver to carefully knock the pegs out of the drawer.
Finally, if the drawer is stuck and won’t come out by either of the above methods, you may need to carefully disassemble the cabinet to get access to the back of the drawer. You can then use a screwdriver or other tools to unscrew the back of the drawer and lift it out.