
Description
This early 20th century Yield House writing desk is a beautifully preserved example of Early American and primitive-inspired design, valued for its modest scale, thoughtful utility, and honest craftsmanship. The desk features a gently curved writing surface, integrated upper pigeonholes, and smoothly functioning drawers intended for everyday correspondence and study.
Retaining its original wooden knobs, the lower drawer pulls exhibit a distinctive green-tinted finish. Centered on the lower drawer is a small hand-applied floral motif, reminiscent of an iris with stylized leaves, adding a subtle note of folk character without overwhelming the desk's clean lines.
The writing surface displays a rich, naturally developed patina with minor marks and wear consistent with age and use, lending warmth and authenticity rather than detracting from its appeal. Construction details remain visible, including small wooden plugs covering fasteners, underscoring the desk's utilitarian origins.
Included is the original matching ladder-back chair, featuring turned legs and a finely woven natural fiber rush seat. The seat remains firm and structurally sound. Gentle texture along the top rail reflects long-term use and placement, while the finish remains stable throughout.
This is a charming and functional writing desk set that bridges Traditional, Primitive, and Early American aesthetics, well suited for both historically inspired interiors and thoughtfully layered modern spaces.
⸻
Dimensions
Desk
"• Width: 30 inches
"• Depth: 21 inches
"• Height: 39 inches
Chair
"• Width: 19.5 inches
"• Depth: 16 inches
"• Height: 45 inches
"• Seat height (floor to seat): 17.5 inches
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: This writing desk and chair set is in very good antique condition, with wear consistent with age and long-term use.
The desk retains its original wood surface and finish, displaying a rich, naturally developed patina. There are minor surface imperfections, including small nicks, light scratches, and subtle unevenness to the writing surface, all consistent with historic use and contributing to the piece's character. The top remains solid, stable, and fully functional.
The lower drawer features a small, centered hand-applied decorative floral motif, resembling an iris with stylized leaves. This detail is intact and stable. All drawers open and close smoothly, and the cubbies are structurally sound.
Original wooden knobs are present throughout. The lower drawer pulls show a soft green-tinted patina consistent with age and oxidation. Side panels display a painted surface likely applied later in the piece's history, now well integrated and stable. Visible wooden plugs covering fasteners are consistent with traditional construction methods.
Underside construction remains solid, with original corner fixtures securing the legs and no evidence of structural compromise.
The accompanying chair is sturdy and well-preserved, featuring a hand-woven natural fiber rush seat. The seat is tight, intact, and evenly worn. Light texture along the chair's top rail is consistent with age and long-term placement rather than finish failure. No loose joints or repairs observed.
Overall, the set presents beautifully with honest wear, excellent integrity, and strong visual appeal.
Dimensions:
Height: 39 in.
Width: 30 in.
Depth: 29 in.
Category: Writing Desks
Origin: United States
Materials: Natural Fiber, Wood
Shipping:For an exact shipping quote, please email us at help@chairishauctions.com with your zip code. Exact shipping costs are dependent on destination, but can range between $230-$1500 for large/bulky items shipped to the continental United States. Note: there may be additional charges for ferry destinations. No local pickup for this auction. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Location: This item ships from Bakersfield, CA
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Retaining its original wooden knobs, the lower drawer pulls exhibit a distinctive green-tinted finish. Centered on the lower drawer is a small hand-applied floral motif, reminiscent of an iris with stylized leaves, adding a subtle note of folk character without overwhelming the desk's clean lines.
The writing surface displays a rich, naturally developed patina with minor marks and wear consistent with age and use, lending warmth and authenticity rather than detracting from its appeal. Construction details remain visible, including small wooden plugs covering fasteners, underscoring the desk's utilitarian origins.
Included is the original matching ladder-back chair, featuring turned legs and a finely woven natural fiber rush seat. The seat remains firm and structurally sound. Gentle texture along the top rail reflects long-term use and placement, while the finish remains stable throughout.
This is a charming and functional writing desk set that bridges Traditional, Primitive, and Early American aesthetics, well suited for both historically inspired interiors and thoughtfully layered modern spaces.
⸻
Dimensions
Desk
"• Width: 30 inches
"• Depth: 21 inches
"• Height: 39 inches
Chair
"• Width: 19.5 inches
"• Depth: 16 inches
"• Height: 45 inches
"• Seat height (floor to seat): 17.5 inches
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: This writing desk and chair set is in very good antique condition, with wear consistent with age and long-term use.
The desk retains its original wood surface and finish, displaying a rich, naturally developed patina. There are minor surface imperfections, including small nicks, light scratches, and subtle unevenness to the writing surface, all consistent with historic use and contributing to the piece's character. The top remains solid, stable, and fully functional.
The lower drawer features a small, centered hand-applied decorative floral motif, resembling an iris with stylized leaves. This detail is intact and stable. All drawers open and close smoothly, and the cubbies are structurally sound.
Original wooden knobs are present throughout. The lower drawer pulls show a soft green-tinted patina consistent with age and oxidation. Side panels display a painted surface likely applied later in the piece's history, now well integrated and stable. Visible wooden plugs covering fasteners are consistent with traditional construction methods.
Underside construction remains solid, with original corner fixtures securing the legs and no evidence of structural compromise.
The accompanying chair is sturdy and well-preserved, featuring a hand-woven natural fiber rush seat. The seat is tight, intact, and evenly worn. Light texture along the chair's top rail is consistent with age and long-term placement rather than finish failure. No loose joints or repairs observed.
Overall, the set presents beautifully with honest wear, excellent integrity, and strong visual appeal.
Dimensions:
Height: 39 in.
Width: 30 in.
Depth: 29 in.
Category: Writing Desks
Origin: United States
Materials: Natural Fiber, Wood
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; This writing desk and chair set is in very good antique condition, with wear consistent with age and long-term use.
The desk retains its original wood surface and finish, displaying a rich, naturally developed patina. There are minor surface imperfections, including small nicks, light scratches, and subtle unevenness to the writing surface, all consistent with historic use and contributing to the piece’s character. The top remains solid, stable, and fully functional.
The lower drawer features a small, centered hand-applied decorative floral motif, resembling an iris with stylized leaves. This detail is intact and stable. All drawers open and close smoothly, and the cubbies are structurally sound.
Original wooden knobs are present throughout. The lower drawer pulls show a soft green-tinted patina consistent with age and oxidation. Side panels display a painted surface likely applied later in the piece’s history, now well integrated and stable. Visible wooden plugs covering fasteners are consistent with traditional construction methods.
Underside construction remains solid, with original corner fixtures securing the legs and no evidence of structural compromise.
The accompanying chair is sturdy and well-preserved, featuring a hand-woven natural fiber rush seat. The seat is tight, intact, and evenly worn. Light texture along the chair’s top rail is consistent with age and long-term placement rather than finish failure. No loose joints or repairs observed.
Overall, the set presents beautifully with honest wear, excellent integrity, and strong visual appeal.
The desk retains its original wood surface and finish, displaying a rich, naturally developed patina. There are minor surface imperfections, including small nicks, light scratches, and subtle unevenness to the writing surface, all consistent with historic use and contributing to the piece’s character. The top remains solid, stable, and fully functional.
The lower drawer features a small, centered hand-applied decorative floral motif, resembling an iris with stylized leaves. This detail is intact and stable. All drawers open and close smoothly, and the cubbies are structurally sound.
Original wooden knobs are present throughout. The lower drawer pulls show a soft green-tinted patina consistent with age and oxidation. Side panels display a painted surface likely applied later in the piece’s history, now well integrated and stable. Visible wooden plugs covering fasteners are consistent with traditional construction methods.
Underside construction remains solid, with original corner fixtures securing the legs and no evidence of structural compromise.
The accompanying chair is sturdy and well-preserved, featuring a hand-woven natural fiber rush seat. The seat is tight, intact, and evenly worn. Light texture along the chair’s top rail is consistent with age and long-term placement rather than finish failure. No loose joints or repairs observed.
Overall, the set presents beautifully with honest wear, excellent integrity, and strong visual appeal.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Early 20th Century Yield House Writing Desk With Original Woven-Seat Chair
Estimate $830-$2,480
Starting Price
$170
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Classical and Contemporary
Mar 27, 2026 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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