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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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Christopher Dresser  (British, Glasgow, Scotland 1834–1904 Mulhouse)

Manufactory:
J.W. and C. Ward
Date:
1870s
Culture:
British, Halifax
Medium:
Wool, silk
Dimensions:
L. 23 1/4 x W. 51 inches (59.1 x 129.5 cm) (loom width)
Classification:
Textiles
Credit Line:
Gift of Paul Walter, 1984
Accession Number:
1984.469

This artwork is currently on display in Gallery 556

120023638

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