Nanna Ditzel desk

This freestanding desk was designed by the Danish designer Nanna Ditzel and produced by Søren Willadsen in Denmark in 1955. It is constructed in rosewood, a favored material of Scandinavian mid-century furniture for its rich color variations and striking natural grain. The wood displays a deep reddish-brown tone with contrasting dark streaks, creating a highly expressive surface. The piece has been completely restored and is presented in good vintage condition, with the restoration ensuring both durability and the preservation of its original aesthetic integrity.

The desk is structured with a rectangular top resting on tapering legs that are slightly offset by horizontal stretchers, enhancing stability while maintaining a light, elegant presence. Its freestanding design allows it to be positioned centrally in a space, emphasizing its role as both a functional and sculptural object. The four drawers are integrated into the front apron, each with recessed handles carved directly into the rosewood. These details reflect the Scandinavian commitment to craftsmanship and subtle, refined solutions rather than applied ornamentation. The proportions are balanced and precise, exemplifying mid-century ideals of functional minimalism.

Nanna Ditzel, often referred to as the “First Lady of Danish Design,” was a pioneering figure in postwar Scandinavian design. She worked across furniture, textiles, and jewelry, creating designs that emphasized organic forms, innovative use of materials, and human-centered functionality. Her work with Søren Willadsen, a skilled Danish cabinetmaker known for high-quality furniture production, resulted in pieces that have since become sought-after examples of Scandinavian modernism. This desk belongs to the early phase of her career, when her furniture design was firmly rooted in the modernist language of clean lines and practicality.

Dimensions: width 175 cm (68.9 in), depth 75 cm (29.5 in), height 72 cm (28.3 in).