Victorian Desks

The context of “Victorian” matters, ranging from buttoned up toward opulent and detailed. Victorian desks and other furniture, whether an antique or inspired contemporary, lean toward the latter. Those with vintage tastes, who appreciate elegant lines and carved wood, will discover a truly unique piece that accents their home office or work area.

Why a Victorian-Style Desk?

In strictly talking about antique Victorian desks, these were created — likely mass manufactured, given the technological advances at the time — during the reign of Queen Victoria, which lasted from 1837 to 1861. Considered a turning point in furniture craftsmanship, this era stepped away from custom-only design while emphasizing comfort and style through upholstery and reviving past techniques and aesthetics. For Victorian desks, this manifested as heavy ornamentation, often in the form of embellishments or carvings with floral, fruit and ribbon themes. Woods featured dark staining or painted accents. As well, desks from this period take influence from medieval architecture, also known as Gothic revival; 17th century Jacobean strapwork; Rococo natural-inspired accents; Renaissance-like arches and figures; and the rustic-like, handmade simplicity of Arts and Crafts furniture.

Explore Modern and Antique Victorian Desks

Chairish has a strong affinity for vintage and antique pieces. We consider furniture an adventure, one that lets us explore various period styles and incorporate them into our homes. At the same time, the design of Victorian desks veers far away from the uniformity of contemporary pieces, giving each a specific context and personality. Along with this, our approach helps preserve this style and contributes to a more sustainable economy. Whether you’re an enthusiast of this furniture period or you’re enamored with its various flourishes, explore new and antique Victorian desks from our highly curated selection. Find Victorian writing desks, along with executive, rolltop and secretary styles, now.