We are pleased to offer for sale this exceptional rosewood desk with chrome legs, dating from the early 1970s. Although the designer or manufacturer remains unknown, the scale, weight, and remarkable craftsmanship strongly suggest it was a one-off piece, likely made in Britain by a skilled cabinetmaker. The quality is outstanding — the desk feels over-engineered in the best possible way, clearly built with no expense spared.

Stylistically, the piece shares visual cues with designs by celebrated mid-century figures such as Bodil Kjær, Poul Nørreklit, Warren Platner, Jørgen Høj, Preben Fabricius, Jørgen Kastholm, and Hans Wegner. While it is not a direct copy of any known model, it’s clearly influenced by the modernist design language of the time, with a refined and individual character. One particularly distinctive feature is the leg construction, where a central wooden leg is encased between two slabs of chromed steel — a structural and aesthetic detail rarely seen.

The floating drawers are, in our opinion, the real highlight. Running the full depth of the desk and suspended to create a dramatic floating effect, they bring both functionality and striking visual balance. Combined with the rich warmth of the rosewood and the crisp industrial edge of the chrome, the desk has a commanding presence. The chromed steel is of unusually high quality — entirely free from rust or pitting, with only minor marks and light scratches consistent with age.

The desk has been professionally repolished and is presented in very good condition overall. The drawers operate smoothly, though they feel slightly stiff when fully extended — something that does not affect day-to-day use. At some point, the original drawer locks were removed, leaving two clean circular holes at the top centre of each drawer front. There is no indication the locks were forced, and we find these details add character, subtly echoing the look of classic Brazilian modernist pieces.

There is a small area on the desktop where the veneer appears slightly raised, likely due to a natural imperfection beneath the surface. It is only visible under certain light and from specific angles, and we were unable to photograph it clearly. For interested buyers, we’re happy to arrange a video call to show this detail and explain it further. It’s not something that, in our view, detracts from the piece, but it’s noted here in the interest of full transparency.

Very rarely do we come across a piece we've never seen before — one that truly surprises us. But this desk does exactly that. It ticks every box: exceptional design, outstanding craftsmanship, intelligent use of materials, and genuine rarity. It’s a piece that stands out.

Viewings are welcome at our West London showroom. High-resolution images and detailed videos are available upon request, and we offer local, national, and international delivery. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions or to arrange a private viewing.