Eames ESU-D-10-C Desk
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 primary colors—red, blue, and yellow. This example features the original enameled steel frame with exposed cross bracing and zinc-coated legs, capped by a black-lipped birch plywood top with visible edge layers—a signature of the earliest production run from 1950 to 1952. The natural birch plywood top has developed a rich patina, showing surface wear consistent with age. Open shelving spans one side of the frame, offering practical storage. Adaptable by design, the desk can be positioned with the leg opening on either side. Inspired by the logic of industrial shelving systems, this desk showcases the designers’ pioneering use of modularity and color theory in domestic furniture. Signed with an early Herman Miller label.
Literature:
Eames Design, Demetrios and Eames, pp. 110–115
The Work of Charles and Ray Eames, Neuhart, pp. 98–101
Designer: Charles and Ray Eames
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Origin: United States
Date: 1950-1952
Dimensions: 29" H x 46" W x 28" D
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 primary colors—red, blue, and yellow. This example features the original enameled steel frame with exposed cross bracing and zinc-coated legs, capped by a black-lipped birch plywood top with visible edge layers—a signature of the earliest production run from 1950 to 1952. The natural birch plywood top has developed a rich patina, showing surface wear consistent with age. Open shelving spans one side of the frame, offering practical storage. Adaptable by design, the desk can be positioned with the leg opening on either side. Inspired by the logic of industrial shelving systems, this desk showcases the designers’ pioneering use of modularity and color theory in domestic furniture. Signed with an early Herman Miller label.
Literature:
Eames Design, Demetrios and Eames, pp. 110–115
The Work of Charles and Ray Eames, Neuhart, pp. 98–101
Designer: Charles and Ray Eames
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Origin: United States
Date: 1950-1952
Dimensions: 29" H x 46" W x 28" D
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 primary colors—red, blue, and yellow. This example features the original enameled steel frame with exposed cross bracing and zinc-coated legs, capped by a black-lipped birch plywood top with visible edge layers—a signature of the earliest production run from 1950 to 1952. The natural birch plywood top has developed a rich patina, showing surface wear consistent with age. Open shelving spans one side of the frame, offering practical storage. Adaptable by design, the desk can be positioned with the leg opening on either side. Inspired by the logic of industrial shelving systems, this desk showcases the designers’ pioneering use of modularity and color theory in domestic furniture. Signed with an early Herman Miller label.
Literature:
Eames Design, Demetrios and Eames, pp. 110–115
The Work of Charles and Ray Eames, Neuhart, pp. 98–101
Designer: Charles and Ray Eames
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Origin: United States
Date: 1950-1952
Dimensions: 29" H x 46" W x 28" D