An exceptional desk by Alain François, created in the 1990s. The piece features colorful marquetry made from various stained woods along its edges and a cross-shaped inlay of floral veneer panels on the softly rounded top. The desk stands on legs adorned with semicircular decorative elements. It includes a narrow drawer and side compartments concealed by cubist-style lids. Adjacent to one of the compartments is the artist's stamped emblem: “AF.”Though best known as a sculptor, Alain François also designed distinctive furniture pieces. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 75.