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The Roentgens' Rolltop Desk

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Art Object
Program Information

The Roentgens' Rolltop Desk

Program information

Watch as this desk's hidden features are revealed.

The richly embellished surface of this rolltop desk conceals a wealth of mechanical surprises and features, including a spectacular arrangement of almost forty compartments and drawers. Abraham (1711–1793) and David Roentgen (1743–1807) designed this table not just for writing and reading but also to function as a dressing table, or poudreuse.

This table, from Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens in Washington, D.C., is featured in the exhibition Extravagant Inventions: The Princely Furniture of the Roentgens (on view October 30, 2012–January 27, 2013).

Learn more about this object: http://trio.hillwoodmuseum.org/detail.php?t=objects&type=related&kv=13072

Footage courtesy of Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens.

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Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration

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Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse  (French, Anizy-le-Château 1824–1887 Sèvres)

Date:
ca. 1865–70
Culture:
French, Paris
Medium:
Terracotta with wood base
Dimensions:
Overall without base (confirmed): H. 32 1/2 x W. 22 1/8 x D. 15 1/2 in. (82.6 x 56.2 x 39.4 cm); Height on base: 36 1/8 in. (91.8 cm)
Classification:
Sculpture
Credit Line:
Wrightsman Fund, 1987
Accession Number:
1987.87

This artwork is currently on display in Gallery 556

120023819

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