The Metropolitan Museum of Art - Mantel clock

Art Object

Program Information

Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

Program information

Discover the secret compartments of this writing table and see how it can be transformed into a private altar.

Perhaps the most exquisite and technically refined piece from German cabinetmaker Abraham Roentgen (1711–1793), this desk was made for his premier patron, the Catholic official Johann Philipp von Walderdorff. Its interior holds a multitude of drawers, panels, and compartments, in addition to sophisticated mechanical fittings that safeguard the elector’s privacy.

This writing table from the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, is featured in the exhibition Extravagant Inventions: The Princely Furniture of the Roentgens (on view October 30, 2012–January 27, 2013). Learn more about the table: http://www.rijksmuseum.nl/collectie/BK-16676/bureau-op-s-vormige-poten-versierd-met-marqueterie.

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David Roentgen: Long-Case Clock
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The Roentgens' Berlin Secretary Cabinet
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Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation
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Mantel clock

Clockmaker: Workshop of Julien Le Roy (1686–1759, master clockmaker 1713–59)

Maker:: Case maker: Joseph Baumhauer (master cabinetmaker, active ca. 1749–1772)
Artist:: Laurent Guiard (1723–1788)
Date:: ca. 1757–60
Culture:: French (Paris)
Medium:: Oak, veneered with ebony, gilt and patinated bronze, brass, enameled metal, steel, glass
Dimensions:: 19 x 27-1/2 x 11 in. (48.3 x 69.9 x 27.9 cm)
Classification:: Horology
Credit Line:: Purchase, Mrs. Charles Wrightsman Gift, 1991
Accession Number:: 1991.8

This artwork is currently on display in Gallery 524

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