The Metropolitan Museum of Art - Parrot (one of a pair)

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
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Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration
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Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation
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Parrot (one of a pair)

Meissen Manufactory (German, 1710–present)

Date:: ca. 1730–35
Culture:: German (Meissen)
Medium:: Hard-paste porcelain, gilt bronze
Dimensions:: H. with base 14 in. (35.6 cm.)
Classification:: Ceramics
Credit Line:: The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973
Accession Number:: 1974.356.372

This artwork is not on display

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Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

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Parrot (one of a pair)

Meissen Manufactory (German, 1710–present)

Met Media

Met Kids

Met Store