So once said my favorite professor to a fellow student in the university library, as I was reminded when I saw this photo of the current occupant of the White House placing his sole on that fantastic and historical piece of craftsmanship. That desk, a gift of Queen Victoria, has been around so long that it has a name, "Resolute". Its fascinating history may be found by following the link. It has been there through the terms of Presidents Kennedy, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush, and Obama*, and will, if treated correctly, be there through many, many more administrations.
*It was removed after Kennedy's assassination then eventually returned to the Oval Office by Carter.