History Of Desks
It is believed, although there is no definite proof, that desks in some form were used in ancient civilization in both the Middle East and Far East. Illustrations made during the Middle Ages depict furniture resembling desks designed and built for purposes of reading and writing.
Before the printing press was invented in the 15th century, books or other documents had to be copied by hand. Many readers, during that time period, were writers or publishers, or even both. Therefore desks were constructed with hooks or slots for bookmarks and writing tools. Desks were massive in size and shape since there was no moveable type, thus creating bigger volumes for manuscripts.
During the Renaissance era, woodworking and cabinet-making became a viable trade. Desks then became slimmer and less cumbersome and more drawers were added. One distinction of the appearance of desks during that era, was the drawer containing three small separations used for the ink pot, blotter and powder tray, as well as room for the pens.