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) 10613 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration
(00:02:17) 16640 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation
(00:01:00) 3015 views

Inkstand

Simon Pantin I (British, ca. 1672–1728)

Date:: 1725–26
Culture:: British, London
Medium:: Silver
Dimensions:: 10 3/4 x 7 3/8 in. (27.3 x 18.7 cm)
Classification:: Metalwork
Credit Line:: The Jules Bache Collection, 1949
Accession Number:: 49.7.94 a-g

This artwork is not on display

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Marking: [1] Leopard's head crowned; [2] K, London date letter for 1725-26; [3] Lion passant; [4] SP peacock in his pride above, maker's mark Location of marks: All on base of tray, maker's mark struck twice.
Provenance

Jules S. Bache
See also
Who
Simon Pantin I (14)
What
Metal (59,364)

Metalwork (14,716)

Silver (14,056)

Inkstands (60)
Where
Europe (148,586)

United Kingdom (25,557)

England (9,102)

London (2,006)
When
A.D. 1600-1800 (66,179)
In the Museum
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts (43,257)
Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History
Great Britain and Ireland, 1600–1800 A.D.

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Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

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Simon Pantin I (British, ca. 1672–1728)

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Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

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Inkstand

Simon Pantin I (British, ca. 1672–1728)

Met Media

Met Kids

Met Store