Search the collections

Videos (3)
Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

Close

<p>Please enable flash to view this media. <a href="http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/">Download the flash player.</a></p>

Please enable flash to view this media. Download the flash player.

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.

David Roentgen: Long-Case Clock

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

The Roentgens' Berlin Secretary Cabinet

The Roentgens' Berlin Secretary Cabinet
(00:02:20) 10583 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration
(00:02:17) 16547 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation
(00:01:00) 3012 views

Related Content

Pair of coasters

Pair of coasters

Pen tray (part of a set)

Pen tray (part of a set)

Snuffer tray (part of a toilet service)

Snuffer tray (part of a toilet service)

Ewer and tray set

Ewer and tray set

Tray

Tray

Browse current and upcoming exhibitions and events.

Exhibitions:

Events:

Events:

Tray with engraved arms of William Burrell (1791–1847)

Digby Scott  (active 1802– after 1811)

Maker:
Benjamin Smith II (1764–1823)
Date:
1806/7
Culture:
British, London
Medium:
Silver-gilt
Dimensions:
Approx. L. 32 in. (81.3 cm)
Classification:
Metalwork
Credit Line:
Gift of Audrey Love, in memory of C. Ruxton Love Jr., 1977
Accession Number:
1977.436.3

This artwork is currently on display in Gallery 509

120022811

Close