Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why are secretary desks called that?
1 Answer
A secretary desk is called by its name because of its original function. When the desks first emerged in 19th-century France, the secretaries of estates used them to conduct business. Once they finished paying bills and reconciling accounts, they could raise the hinged writing surface and close the desk. Secretary desks are the workstations of choice in many busy households, especially those with spaces pulling double duty as offices by day and living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms at night. On 1stDibs, shop an array of secretary desks.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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Shop for Chinoiserie Secretary Desk on 1stDibs
1930s Georgian Style Painted Chinoiserie Secretary Desk with Bookcase
Located in Kennesaw, GA
This is a 1930s Georgian style painted chinoiserie secretary desk with open bookcase top. It is
Category
Vintage 1930s Italian Georgian Secretaires
Materials
Wood, Paint
Rose Tarlow Melrose House Queen Anne Black & Red Chinoiserie Secretary Desk
By Rose Tarlow
Located in LOS ANGELES, CA
Rose Tarlow Melrose House Queen Anne Black & Red Chinoiserie Secretary Desk. It features the most
Category
1990s American Queen Anne Secretaires
Materials
Giltwood, Lacquer
Midcentury French Style Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Secretary Desk / Cabinet
Located in Kennesaw, GA
This is a midcentury French style hand painted chinoiserie secretary with a unique bombe form base
Category
Mid-20th Century American Chinoiserie Secretaires
Materials
Leather, Glass, Lacquer
Elegant Red Chinoiserie Hand Painted Secretary Desk
Located in Lambertville, NJ
Beautiful tall hand painted chinoiserie secretary desk. The red and gold case with front doors that
Category
Late 20th Century American Chinoiserie Secretaires
Materials
Hardwood
Late 20th Century Vintage Regency Chinoiserie Mirrored Secretary Desk
Located in west palm beach, FL
A stunning vintage Regency Secretary desk. Beautiful hand painted Chinoiserie detail on a saffron
Category
Late 20th Century American Chinoiserie Desks
Materials
Mirror, Wood
Georgian Chinoiserie Cream Lacquered Hand Painted Secretary Desk With Bookcase
By Jasper Furniture Company
Located in South Bend, IN
A gorgeous Georgian Chinoiserie style bureau with drop front secretary desk and bookcase hutch top
Category
Mid-20th Century American Chinoiserie Desks
Materials
Brass