Mahogany oval writing table, 1780-85
Mahogany dressing table, 1780-85

David Roentgen (1743-1807)
Germany 

David Roentgen and his father, Abraham, were innovative in every aspect of their business. They employed skilled artisans, used modern manufacturing methods, and travelled throughout Europe to advertise their work. 

At the time that the 5th Duke of Devonshire bought these two tables, they would have been at the height of fashion. The 5th Duke and his wife, Duchess Georgiana, would have seen Roentgen pieces like these at the French court of Louise XVI and Marie Antoinette and it’s likely that they bought these pieces as a result. 

Perhaps the most inventive and surprising aspect of these pieces are the mechanical devices they hide.

Take a look at the videos below that bring them to life. 

Roentgen writing table

Roentgen dressing table

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