scrutoires

Refers to cabinets, generally with a fall-front used for writing. A scrutoire may also be a set of cabinets set on a table, which is used for writing. It was popular in France, England, and America in the early 18th century, but was also in use later. In modern usage, it is typically distinguished from an "escritoire" or a "secretary" by having distinctive, small cubbyholes and drawers above the writing surface; however, all three terms are sometimes used interchangeably.