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Mechanical table, 1778
Jean-Henri Riesener (French, 1734–1806)
Oak veneered with bois satiné (bloodwood), holly, black stained holly, amaranth, berberis, stained sycamore, and green lacquered wood, gilt-bronze mounts; H. 31 x W. 44 1/2 x D. 27 in. (78.7 x 113 x 68.6 cm)
Rogers Fund, 1933 (33.12)

The inventory number painted underneath the top allows this table to be identified as the one delivered by Riesener for use of Queen Marie Antoinette to the Château of Versailles in 1778. It was one of many pieces of exquisite furniture ordered by the queen from Riesener and was commissioned specifically for use during the confinement and lying-in at the birth of her first child. The table has intricate latticework marquetry in simulated relief, enclosing sunflowers. At each end, a rectangular gilt-bronze plaque decorated with interlaced rose and laurel branches hides the mechanism that makes it possible to raise or lower the table's top by means of a crank.


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  • Mechanical table, 1778
    Jean-Henri Riesener (French, 1734–1806)
    Oak veneered with bois satiné (bloodwood), holly, black stained holly, amaranth, berberis, stained sycamore, and green lacquered wood, gilt-bronze mounts; H. 31 x W. 44 1/2 x D. 27 in. (78.7 x 113 x 68.6 cm)
    Rogers Fund, 1933 (33.12)