The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Art Object

Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

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.

Video/Audio (4)

David Roentgen: Long-Case Clock
(00:00:52)

The Roentgens' Berlin Secretary Cabinet
(00:02:20) 10702 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration
(00:02:17) 16956 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation
(00:01:00) 3033 views

Plateau

Elkington & Co. (British, Birmingham, 1829–1963)

Date:: 19th century
Culture:: British, Birmingham (after a German, Augsburg original)
Medium:: Electroformed copper, gilt
Dimensions:: Overall (confirmed): H. 2 1/2 x W. 42 x D. 34 1/2 in. (6.4 x 106.7 x 87.6 cm)
Classification:: Metalwork
Credit Line:: Gift of Henry G. Marquand, 1883
Accession Number:: 83.18.265

This artwork is not on display

WHAT IS MYMET?

Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

Plateau

Elkington & Co. (British, Birmingham, 1829–1963)

Met Media

Met Kids

Met Store

WHAT IS MYMET?

Already have a mymet account? Sign in

Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

Related Content

Plateau

Elkington & Co. (British, Birmingham, 1829–1963)

Met Media

Met Kids

Met Store