Vintage Herbert E Gibbs Teak Writing Desk Bureau
A fine, functional piece from reputable British furniture maker, Herbert E Gibbs. It delivers a lot – discreet, slimline storage, bookshelves and a desk. As was Gibb’s way, its design is unfussy and utilitarian, and as such, it means it’s neutral, easily fitting into any room alongside different styles and pieces. Less space-hungry than a conventional desk, bureaus are great options for kids’ and students’ rooms to help them get organised with a dedicated but discreet work station that can be closed away. This one comes with some dents and knocks from its busy life which is reflected in our price but a great opportunity to acquire a good value, old-fashioned classic.
Description
This is an original, vintage piece that is ‘sold as seen’. It is in good, used condition with some specific areas of wear. We have cleaned the piece thoroughly inside and out, applying a natural beeswax polish to the exterior surfaces but otherwise leaving the original finish alone. The top door pulls down to create the desk / writing platform with interior pigeonholes, hinges and closures in very good order. The drawer slides with ease and is clean and tidy inside. Likewise, the lower glass-fronted bookcase is in very good order with a height-adjustable shelf and the doors sliding with ease in their runners. The exterior wood is overall in good order but please note the band above the drawer and below the door – this has sustained some damage across its length where a screw was trapped in the seam, denting and scratching the wood – a great shame. It doesn’t affect the function of the piece but it is noticeable and we have reflected this light damage in our price. We opted not to disguise / restore it as otherwise the piece is in very good order with just minor signs of wear and tear here and there in line with its age and use. Coming from Herbet E Gibbs, it’s a well-made piece, solid and stable. The maker’s plate is on the back and it dates from the 1960s.