What is an executive desk?

An executive desk is a desk often found in the offices of C-suite executives and other professionals. Compared to a standard writing desk, an executive desk is typically larger. Many feature ornate details and/or rare materials, like exotic hardwoods. Although designs vary, most executive desks have a pedestal design with a center space that provides legroom positioned between stacked drawers. Find a diverse assortment of desks on 1stDibs.

What was the term in French furniture for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface?

In French, the term for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface is secretaire. This type of desk is called a secretary desk in English. Simply put, a secretary desk is a multifunctional piece of furniture with a hinged writing surface that folds open or drops down. When the leaf is folded out, small inner storage compartments, which are called pigeonholes, cubbies, recesses or drawers, are revealed. On 1stDibs, shop antique secretary desks from some of the world's top sellers.

French Executive Desk - 112 For Sale on 1stDibs

French Executive Desk For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the French executive desk you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, metal and animal skin, every French executive desk was constructed with great care. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer French executive desk, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 20th Century. A French executive desk made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Art Deco — is very popular. Finn Juhl, France Søn and Mobilier International each produced at least one beautiful French executive desk that is worth considering.

How Much is a French Executive Desk?

The average selling price for a French executive desk at 1stDibs is $6,625, while they’re typically $2,574 on the low end and $275,000 for the highest priced.

Questions About French Executive Desk

What is an executive desk?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
An executive desk is a desk often found in the offices of C-suite executives and other professionals. Compared to a standard writing desk, an executive desk is typically larger. Many feature ornate details and/or rare materials, like exotic hardwoods. Although designs vary, most executive desks have a pedestal design with a center space that provides legroom positioned between stacked drawers. Find a diverse assortment of desks on 1stDibs.
What was the term in French furniture for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
In French, the term for a writing desk that often featured a drop-down writing surface is secretaire. This type of desk is called a secretary desk in English. Simply put, a secretary desk is a multifunctional piece of furniture with a hinged writing surface that folds open or drops down. When the leaf is folded out, small inner storage compartments, which are called pigeonholes, cubbies, recesses or drawers, are revealed. On 1stDibs, shop antique secretary desks from some of the world's top sellers.

French Executive Desk

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

French Art Deco Executive Demi-Lune Desk in Dark Mahogany

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Art Deco Executive Desk Attributed to Andre Arbus

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Desks

Art Deco Executive Desk in Macassar Ebony and Brass, France, circa 1930s

French Executive Desk For Sale on 1stDibs

How Much is a French Executive Desk?

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