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Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

American

Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. The Eameses were lovers of folk craft who had a genius for making highly original chairs, tables, case pieces and other furniture using traditional materials and forms.

As furniture designers, filmmakers, artists, textile and graphic designers and even toy and puzzle makers, the Eameses were a visionary and effective force for the notion that design should be an agent of positive change. They are the happy, ever-curious, ever-adventurous faces of modernism.

Charles Eames (1907–78) studied architecture and industrial design. Ray Eames (née Beatrice Alexandra Kaiser, 1912–88) was an artist, who studied under the Abstract Expressionist painter Hans Hofmann. They met in 1940 at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in suburban Detroit (the legendary institution where Charles also met his frequent collaborator Eero Saarinen and the artist and designer Harry Bertoia) and married the next year.

His technical skills and her artistic flair were wonderfully complementary. They moved to Los Angeles in 1941, where Charles worked on set design for MGM. In the evenings at their apartment, they experimented with molded plywood using a handmade heat-and-pressurization device they called the “Kazam!” machine. The next year, they won a contract from the U.S. Navy for lightweight plywood leg splints for wounded servicemen — vintage Eames splints are coveted collectibles today; more so those that Ray used to make sculptures.

The Navy contract allowed Charles to open a professional studio, and the attention-grabbing plywood furniture the firm produced prompted George Nelson, the director of design of the furniture-maker Herman Miller Inc., to enlist Charles and (by association, if not by contract) Ray in 1946. Some of the first Eames items to emerge from Herman Miller are now classics: the Eames chair, the LCW, or Lounge Chair Wood, and the DCM, or Dining Chair Metal, supported by tubular steel.

The Eameses eagerly embraced new technology and materials, and one of their peculiar talents was to imbue their supremely modern design with references to folk traditions. 

Their Wire chair group of the 1950s, for example, was inspired by basket weaving techniques. The populist notion of “good design for all” drove their molded fiberglass chair series that same decade, and also produced the organic-form, ever-delightful La Chaise. In 1956 the Eames lounge chair and ottoman appeared — the supremely comfortable plywood-base-and-leather-upholstery creation that will likely live in homes as long as there are people with good taste and sense.

Charles Eames once said, “The role of the designer is that of a very good, thoughtful host anticipating the needs of his guests.” For very good collectors and thoughtful interior designers, a piece of design by the Eameses, the closer produced to original conception the better, is almost de rigueur — for its beauty and comfort, and not least as a tribute to the creative legacy and enduring influence of Charles and Ray Eames.

The original Eames furniture for sale on 1stDibs includes chairs, tables, case pieces and other items.

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Creator: Charles and Ray Eames
Eames Desk Unit (EDU - 2nd Generation) by Ray and Charles Eames for Herman Mille
Eames Desk Unit (EDU - 2nd Generation) by Ray and Charles Eames for Herman Mille

Eames Desk Unit (EDU - 2nd Generation) by Ray and Charles Eames for Herman Mille

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames, Charles Eames, Ray Eames

Located in Saint Paul, MN

Plywood and off-the-shelf parts quickly became the calling card for the Eameses' honest design ethos. The Eames Desk Unit (EDU) was no different with its plywood top, masonite panels...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

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Folding Table by Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller, 1947
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Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller 6' Conference Dining Table
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Action Office Writing Desk by George Nelson and Robert Propst for Herman Miller
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By Herman Miller, George Nelson

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Action Office desk, designed by George Nelson & Robert Propst for Herman Miller from the 1960s. Base made of chrome-plated aluminum with white plastic protectors. Lockable hinged cov...

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1947 Charles and Ray Eames IT-1 Incidental Folding Side Kids Table Herman Miller
1947 Charles and Ray Eames IT-1 Incidental Folding Side Kids Table Herman Miller

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By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Hyattsville, MD

Museum quality early example. Retains rare paper label.

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La Fonda Table by Charles and Ray Eames, Travertine, Chrome, Signed
La Fonda Table by Charles and Ray Eames, Travertine, Chrome, Signed

La Fonda Table by Charles and Ray Eames, Travertine, Chrome, Signed

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Kansas City, MO

La Fonda table designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Alexander Girard's La Fonda restaurant interior. The table shows very few signs of use. This can be us...

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Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller Restored Rosewood Conference Dining Table
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By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This rare table was designed by Charles and Ray Eames in the early 1960s for Herman Miller, the producer of all Eames designs at the time. It was not widely produced at the time, and...

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"La Fonda" Marble Top Coffee Table by Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller
"La Fonda" Marble Top Coffee Table by Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller

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By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in San Diego, CA

A gorgeous "La Fonda" coffee table designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller with original Botticinno marble top and polished aluminum base, circa 1970s. This rare table wa...

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Charles and Ray Eames Round Oak Veneer Pedestal Dining Table for Herman Miller
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Previously Available Items
Early Eames ESU-D-10-C Desk - 1st generation, Herman Miller, 1950s, Original
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First-generation ESU-D-10-C desk, designed by Charles and Ray Eames, produced by Herman Miller. A rare early production example, distinguished by lacquered Masonite panels in vivid p...

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Mid Century Plywood Desk Unit by Eames for Herman Miller
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By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Detroit, MI

The mid century modern Eames Desk Unit was designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller in 1952 and has remained an American mid century modern classic ever since. The iconic ...

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2010s American Mid-Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Eames for Herman Miller Round White Laminate Table on Aluminum Base
Eames for Herman Miller Round White Laminate Table on Aluminum Base

Eames for Herman Miller Round White Laminate Table on Aluminum Base

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Chattanooga, TN

This listing is for the table alone. The chairs and accessories pictured are not included. Vintage Eames round white laminate table for Herman Miller. The 42″ diameter dining table rests on a classic Charles Eames aluminum contract base with black post. The pedestal design allows for maximum leg room beneath the table. The table has room to seat up to six people. Leveling glides on the feet can be adjusted maintain balance on uneven floors. This white laminate top is original and features the Herman Miller label. The Eames table was first designed in the Mid-Century Modern era and has endured through the decades with it’s timeless, versatile design. This table is well suited at home or in the office. Commercial settings, rentals, and homes with children benefit from the durable laminate surface. 42” diameter x 29” High Condition: Original vintage condition with light wear throughout including tiny nicks on table top, paint scuffs on stem and spots on aluminum base. We also have two 32 inch square Eames tables and a boomerang shaped desk on an Eames aluminum base. A white marble Eames coffee table is also available. Complete your office with Charles Pollock Executive chairs (sold separately) in blue velvet, red or blue fabric. Eames collectors will be happy to know that we have twenty naugahyde stackable Eames...

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1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Eames for Herman Miller 32 Inch Square Angular Aluminum Base Table
Eames for Herman Miller 32 Inch Square Angular Aluminum Base Table

Eames for Herman Miller 32 Inch Square Angular Aluminum Base Table

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Chattanooga, TN

Vintage Eames table by Herman Miller with angular aluminum base. The 32″ square table is compact and versatile. Use this table in the dining room, kitchen, or office. The table was first designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1964. The elegant yet utilitarian table was meant to adapt a variety of needs and settings. The sleek, stem-like, base maximizes leg room. This table has an angular aluminum base most commonly seen on the Eames coffee tables. We also have a near identical table that has the typical swag style base. The table has the signature four-prong aluminum base. Leveling glides on the feet correct uneven floor surfaces. The solid wood top on this table appears to be a post-market modification. 32” square x 26” High Condition: Solid wood top in very good condition with new coat of finish. Only very minor flaws remain. Original aluminum base has some light wear including scuffs and spots. We also have a second, nearly identical version of this table. Inquire if you are interested in the mate. Complete your office with Charles Pollock Executive chairs (sold separately) in blue velvet, red or blue fabric. Eames collectors will be happy to know that we have twenty naugahyde stackable Eames shell chairs...

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1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Vintage Herman Miller 32 Square Solid Wood Top Eames Table
Vintage Herman Miller 32 Square Solid Wood Top Eames Table

Vintage Herman Miller 32 Square Solid Wood Top Eames Table

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Chattanooga, TN

Vintage Eames table by Herman Miller. The 32″ square table is compact and versatile. Use this table in the dining room, kitchen, or office. The table was first designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1964. The elegant yet utilitarian table was meant to adapt a variety of needs and settings. The sleek, stem-like, base maximizes leg room. The table has the signature four-prong aluminum base. Leveling glides on the feet correct uneven floor surfaces. The solid wood top on this table appears to be a post-market modification. 32” square x 26” High Condition: Clean solid wood top except for very minor flaws. Original aluminum base has some light wear including scuffs and spots. We also have a second, nearly identical version of this table. Inquire if you are interested in the mate. Complete your office with Charles Pollock Executive chairs (sold separately) in blue velvet, red or blue fabric. Eames collectors will be happy to know that we have twenty naugahyde stackable Eames shell chairs...

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1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Mid-Century Modern Walnut Boomerang Desk with Eames Herman Miller Base
Mid-Century Modern Walnut Boomerang Desk with Eames Herman Miller Base

Mid-Century Modern Walnut Boomerang Desk with Eames Herman Miller Base

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Chattanooga, TN

Something old, something new, something borrowed… but it’s not blue. This Mid-Century Modern boomerang desk is a new creation made from vintage parts. The restored Mid-Century Modern boomerang table top has been married to an authentic Eames table base. Our restoration team fashioned this versatile, sleek, piece that can be used as a table or desk. The Atomic Age table top arches, with a narrow left side broadening as it bends toward the right. Savvy collector’s will immediately recognize the aluminum Eames base, first designed in 1964 for Herman Miller. The sleek, stem-like, base maximizes leg room. The table has two of the signature four-prong aluminum bases. Leveling glides on the feet to correct uneven floor surfaces. This piece is a one-of-a-kind creation built on a legendary foundation. 73” Long x 34.75” Deep x 28 3/8” High Condition: Table top has been refinished. Original aluminum base has some light wear including scuffs and spots. We also have two 32″ inch square Eames Herman Miller tables. Inquire if you are interested in the mate. Complete your office with Charles Pollock Executive chairs (sold separately) in blue velvet, red or blue fabric. Eames collectors will be happy to know that we have twenty naugahyde stackable Eames shell chairs...

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1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

Mid Century Plywood Desk Unit by Eames for Herman Miller
Mid Century Plywood Desk Unit by Eames for Herman Miller

Mid Century Plywood Desk Unit by Eames for Herman Miller

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Detroit, MI

This mid century Eames Desk Unit was designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller in 1952 and has remained an American mid century modern classic ever since. This iconic offic...

Category

Early 2000s American Mid-Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Mid Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller Desk
Mid Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller Desk

Mid Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller Desk

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

The Charles and Ray Eames desk is a quintessential example of mid-century modern design, representing the creative brilliance of this renow...

Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

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Eames for Herman Miller Student Desk Chair
Eames for Herman Miller Student Desk Chair

Eames for Herman Miller Student Desk Chair

Sold

H 31.75 in W 21.5 in D 24 in

Eames for Herman Miller Student Desk Chair

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Fulton, CA

Eames for Herman Miller formed fiberglass desk chair. Desk top flips up for easier seating. Retains Herman Miller labels. Vibrant blue upholstery...

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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Charles & Ray Eames Dining Table or Desk Table by Vitra
Charles & Ray Eames Dining Table or Desk Table by Vitra

Charles & Ray Eames Dining Table or Desk Table by Vitra

By Vitra, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Segmented dining table or desk by Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra Nice and sturdy wooden top with a chromed aluminum base. The table is in good condition. 1990s - USA Mea...

Category

1990s American Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

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Chrome

Mid-Century Eames Esu Desk First Series
Mid-Century Eames Esu Desk First Series

Mid-Century Eames Esu Desk First Series

Sold

H 29 in W 60 in D 24.5 in

Mid-Century Eames Esu Desk First Series

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Eames ESU - EDU first series desk featuring colored panels. This is an original desk retaining the original feet and colored panels. All hardware is original. A wonderful opportunity...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

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Charles & Ray Eames for ICF EA 108 Black Leather Chairs and Oval Dining Table
Charles & Ray Eames for ICF EA 108 Black Leather Chairs and Oval Dining Table

Charles & Ray Eames for ICF EA 108 Black Leather Chairs and Oval Dining Table

By Charles and Ray Eames, ICF Group

Located in Rochester, England

Originally designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1958, the EA 108 chair has since become a design icon. ICF was one of four original manufacturers granted a license by Herman Mille...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather

Charles And Ray Eames desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Charles and Ray Eames desks and writing tables are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of metal and are designed with extraordinary care. Many of the original desks and writing tables by Charles and Ray Eames were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the late 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desks and writing tables by Warren Platner, Lane Furniture, and Frank Lloyd Wright. Prices for Charles and Ray Eames desks and writing tables can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,095 and can go as high as $2,995, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,498.
Questions About Charles and Ray Eames Desks and Writing Tables
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Charles and Ray Eames are famous for their chair designs. The couple released their first iconic Eames Lounge and Ottoman in 1956 and went on to create more chairs that changed the idea of comfortable seating. In addition to being great furniture designers, Ray and Charles were also graphic and textile designers, architects and film-makers. Shop a collection of Eames chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    Charles and Ray Eames were related by marriage. Charles studied architecture and industrial design. Ray (née Bernice Alexandra Kaiser) was an artist who studied under painter Hans Hofmann. They met in 1940 at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in suburban Detroit and married the next year. Shop a selection of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    For Charles and Ray Eames’ chairs designed for Herman Miller, molded plywood, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, bent and welded wire mesh, and cast aluminum were used in production. You can shop a collection of Eames furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Charles and Ray Eames have been recognized as the 20th century’s most influential designers and are best known for their highly recognizable chairs. The Eames lounge chair and ottoman are an iconic duo in modern-styled furniture, and s​ome of the first Eames items to emerge from Herman Miller are now classics: the LCW, or Lounge Chair Wood, and the DCM, or Dining Chair Metal, supported by tubular steel. Find vintage Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Rosewood was the favorite wood of famed American designers Charles and Ray Eames. Rosewood made its way into some of the duo’s most celebrated designs, including the iconic Eames lounge chair. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of genuine Eames furniture from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    Yes, Charles Eames chairs are comfortable. The Eameses — Charles and Ray — were fascinated by ergonomics and designed chairs with comfort in mind. The legendary mid-century modernist designer-couple famously called their Eames lounge chair and ottoman “a special refuge from the strains of modern living” and described their design as having the “warm receptive look of a well-used first baseman’s mitt.”

    While the couple’s DCW chairs, introduced in the 1940s, prioritized ease of production and affordability of materials, the Eames lounger, which debuted in 1956, was Charles and Ray’s interpretation of luxury furniture. And to the Eameses, luxury meant, above all, comfort.

    Find vintage Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.