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Abraham Roentgen's Writing Desk

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Art Object
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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) 10632 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Demonstration
(00:02:17) 16720 views

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation

Rolltop Desk by David Roentgen: Animation
(00:01:00) 3016 views

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Berain Grotesques (set of five)

Style of Jean Berain  (French, Saint-Mihiel 1640–1711 Paris)

Designer:
Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer (French, Lille 1636–1699 London)
Designer:
Border designed by Jean Berain (French, Saint-Mihiel 1640–1711 Paris)
Manufactory:
Beauvais
Factory director:
Philippe Béhagle (French, 1641–1705)
Date:
late 17th–early 18th century
Culture:
French, Beauvais
Medium:
Wool, silk (21-27 warps per inch, 8-9 per cm.)
Dimensions:
See individual records for measurements.
Classification:
Textiles
Credit Line:
Gift of John M. Schiff, 1977
Accession Number:
1977.437.1–.5

This artwork is not on display

120049592

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