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The Roentgens' Rolltop Desk

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Art Object
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The Roentgens' Rolltop Desk

Program information

Watch as this desk's hidden features are revealed.

The richly embellished surface of this rolltop desk conceals a wealth of mechanical surprises and features, including a spectacular arrangement of almost forty compartments and drawers. Abraham (1711–1793) and David Roentgen (1743–1807) designed this table not just for writing and reading but also to function as a dressing table, or poudreuse.

This table, from Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens in Washington, D.C., is featured in the exhibition Extravagant Inventions: The Princely Furniture of the Roentgens (on view October 30, 2012–January 27, 2013).

Learn more about this object: http://trio.hillwoodmuseum.org/detail.php?t=objects&type=related&kv=13072

Footage courtesy of Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens.

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Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation

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Auguste Rodin  (French, Paris 1840–1917 Meudon)

Date:
ca. 1874
Culture:
French
Medium:
Terracotta, wood
Dimensions:
15-1/2 x 8-7/8 x 9-3/8 in. (39.4 x 22.5 x 23.8 cm) H. (with base) 18-3/4 in. (47.6 cm.)
Classification:
Sculpture
Credit Line:
Purchase, Charles Ulrick and Josephine Bay Foundation Inc. Gift, 1975
Accession Number:
1975.312.7

This artwork is currently on display in Gallery 800

120022405

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