Escritoire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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escritoire
[ษs.kriหหtษษชษr ]
Definition
furniture
An escritoire is a type of writing desk, often with a hinged writing surface that can be closed to conceal its contents. It typically includes drawers and compartments for storing writing materials. Escritores were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, combining functionality with decorative design.
Synonyms
bureau, secretary, writing desk.
Examples of usage
- She wrote her letters at the antique escritoire.
- His escritoire was neatly organized with all his writing supplies.
- The escritoire had intricate carvings on its surface.
- He opened the escritoire to reveal a hidden compartment.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Design
- Escritoires often come with compartments to organize writing materials, reflecting a time when handwritten correspondence was essential.
- Some variations have drop-down writing surfaces to save space, showcasing clever furniture design.
- From ornate to minimalist designs, escritoires can be found in various styles, representing the owner's taste and the era they were made.
Cultural Significance
- In the 19th century, these desks were popular among writers and intellectuals, symbolizing productivity and creativity.
- Escritoires often served as a personal retreat for writers, providing a space for contemplation and inspiration.
- Today, they are often seen as vintage pieces, bringing a sense of nostalgia and elegance to modern homes.
Influence in Literature
- Writers such as Virginia Woolf and Ernest Hemingway used desks that resemble escritoires, emphasizing the connection between space and creativity.
- In literature, characters are often depicted writing important letters or novels at their escritoire, symbolizing communication and self-expression.
- The escritoire has appeared in various novels as a setting for crucial plot developments, illustrating its role in intellectual life.
Art and Revolution
- During the Enlightenment, as ideas spread through letters and essays, the escritoire became a symbol of intellectual progress.
- Artists like Gustave Courbet showcased scenes with escritoires, elevating the simple act of writing to an art form.
- The portrayal of these desks in art reflects their function not only as furniture but as vessels of thought and creativity.
Origin of 'escritoire'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French 'รฉcrire', meaning 'to write', highlighting its purpose.
- Its roots trace back to the Latin word 'scribere', which also means 'to write'.
- The term began to appear in English literature around the 18th century, reflecting changing attitudes towards personal writing spaces.
The word 'escritoire' originated in the late 17th century, derived from the French word 'รฉcritoire', which comes from 'รฉcrire', meaning 'to write'. Its use became common in English literature during the Georgian period, reflecting a growing appreciation for elegance in design and the art of letter writing. Escritores were often crafted from fine woods and adorned with brass or ivory accents, serving as symbols of status and refinement in the homes of the wealthy. Over time, while the popularity of funcionarios waned with the advent of modern office furniture, the term remains in use today, often to describe an antique piece or a stylish writing desk.