Nanna Ditzel desk

This rare freestanding desk was designed by Nanna Ditzel and produced by Søren Willadsen in Denmark in 1955. Crafted entirely from oak, the desk features a rectangular top with clean, linear edges and a subtly expressive grain pattern. The oak displays a light golden tone with a natural matte finish, characterized by even coloration and precise, well-matched joinery. The desk is supported by four round, tapered legs connected to the apron via sculpted Y-shaped braces, providing both stability and architectural interest.

The front of the desk is fitted with four equal-sized drawers, each featuring integrated horizontal recessed pulls carved directly into the oak. The pulls are arranged symmetrically in pairs, maintaining a visually clear and harmonious facade. The drawers are dovetailed and slide smoothly, reflecting the high craftsmanship standards typical of mid-century Danish cabinetmaking.

Nanna Ditzel (1923–2005) was a pioneering Danish designer known for her work across furniture, textiles, and jewelry. A graduate of the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Ditzel developed a distinctive design language that combined geometric rigor with soft, functional forms. While many of her iconic pieces embrace organic and experimental shapes, this desk reflects her earlier, more restrained modernist approach, emphasizing form, proportion, and material quality.

Søren Willadsen’s workshop in Vejen, Denmark, was renowned for producing finely crafted furniture in collaboration with leading Danish designers. The firm’s output is recognized for exceptional material finishes and meticulous joinery.

The desk is in very good vintage condition, showing minor wear consistent with age on the legs and edges. The oak structure remains sound, and the drawers function smoothly.

Dimensions measure 175 cm in width, 75 cm in depth, and 72 cm in height (approximately 68.9 by 29.5 by 28.3 inches).