Hand-Carved 19th Century Solid Oak Pedestal Desk In Blend #41

At the heart of what makes a piece like this feel and look so special is the combination of all the finer details that emerge when the eye is drawn close to its features. It is typically in these details that we excavate the motif that guides us through the process of conceptualising its restoration.

This beautiful pedestal desk came to us adorned with carvings across every panel and drawer face. Each carving appeared slightly different from the next, showing signs of different hands at work—likely multiple craftsmen and apprentices who laboured over the intricate detailing, all drawing from the same inspiration. As one moves around the piece, traditional carving patterns blend seamlessly to create depth and texture, enhancing its complexity without feeling overbearing. Instead, they combine elegantly, like a motif that tessellates throughout, enriching the design without detracting from the beautiful grain, natural characteristics of the timber, or the piece’s striking proportions or form.

For its restoration, we always begin by carefully inspecting its condition and structure, carrying out any necessary repairs to ensure the piece is ready for the next steps. The exceptional construction of this desk played a crucial role in preserving its main structural elements over the centuries, requiring only a conservative intervention—always a sign of a truly remarkable antique.

A few elements, such as small sections of carving on mobile parts like the drawers, had been lost or damaged over time and needed to be re-carved and replaced. Additionally, small cracks in the wood were reinforced using antique oak of a similar age to ensure a seamless match and a long-lasting repair. These restorations were carried out by a highly experienced restorer who took great care to ensure that they did not detract from the piece’s original character. Each repair was meticulously executed to blend seamlessly with the aesthetic, preserving its authenticity while ensuring it remains flawless for another two centuries.

Originally, pieces like this would have featured a leather-bound top in striking colours with gilded details. However, this had been lost over time, perhaps for practicality, and was replaced with a solid oak top. This replacement, however, was not a particularly considered addition to the piece—it was oversized, and the timber was poorly selected. We knew we had to entirely reimagine the top.

We decided to introduce what has now become a staple in our style: a framed top that not only adds depth and interest to the most visible section but also serves as a nod to the original design. The original desk would have had a square leather panel at its centre, and we honoured this by maintaining the square centre layout—this time, however, crafted entirely from oak with the most beautiful grain we could find. To complement this feature, we introduced an egg-and-dart carved moulding around the top to match the lower trim. This instantly made the top feel more in keeping with the rest of the piece and its original character. Carving this by hand took many hours, but it was the only way to ensure it would look and feel just right

To finalise this piece, we carefully hand-sanded every surface and refinished it with our Blend #41, a tone that closely resembles the original finish while using modern materials that enhance the timber’s natural beauty. This finish highlights the texture and topography of the carvings, timber, and grain, with a subtle satin undertone that perfectly balances the piece between modern and antique.

We also introduced the most remarkable solid brass knobs, each adorned with a single bead detail, which have been hand-patinated and antiqued. To complement them, we selected a beautifully decorated antique key, carefully adapted to fit the restored locks, ensuring that this piece is not only visually cohesive but also fully functional in every aspect.

The drawers are spacious, and the proportions are perfectly suited for comfortable use as a desk, making this not just a practical workspace but a true heirloom—one that will define any room it is placed in and remain as beautiful as it always was, perhaps even more so, as it begins its next chapter in a new home for another 200 years.

Drawers Internal Dimensions:

Centre Drawer: Width: 44 cm | Depth: 47 cm | Height: 9 cm

Top Side Drawers: Width: 36.5 cm | Depth: 47 cm | Height: 9 cm

• Middle Side Drawers: Width: 36.5 cm | Depth: 47.5 cm | Height: 12 cm

• Bottom Side Drawers: Width: 36.5 cm | Depth: 47.5 cm | Height: 14 cm

• Leg Space: Width: 46.5 cm | Depth: 64 cm | Height: 57 cm

Materials:

Solid Wood: Oak | Ash (Drawer Sides) | Mahogany (Drawer Bottoms)

Hardware: Solid Brass

All pieces are carefully packaged to ensure safe delivery. Small ready-to-ship pieces, such as trays, small antiques, and collectibles, are collected within one week. Larger ready-to-ship pieces require 1–2 weeks for collection, as additional time is needed to prepare and crate them securely.

UK Delivery: Delivery to the front entrance of the property is included in the total price listed on the product page and takes place the following day after collection. This service does not include placement inside the home.

Worldwide Delivery: Delivery to the front entrance of the property is included in the total price listed on the product page, with transit times of 3–11 days following collection. Taxes and duties are covered in the listed price. If there are any changes to import regulations during production that affect costs, we will provide an update as needed.

White Glove Delivery: A White Glove delivery service can be arranged for any piece. Please get in touch if assistance is required with placement or installation.

Returns: A 14-day no-hassle returns policy applies. A full refund is provided, with the cost of return shipping covered by the customer.