Rolltop desk 1771 - 1784

This rolltop desk, crafted by renowned French cabinetmaker David Roentgen between 1771 and 1784, showcases the intricate artistry of 18th-century furniture making. The desk's intricate marquetry, featuring Chinoiserie motifs, reflects the fashionable taste for Eastern aesthetics during this period. The rolltop design, with its elegant curved top and hidden compartments, was innovative for its time and speaks to Roentgen's expertise in both aesthetics and functionality. The desk is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a testament to its enduring beauty and historical significance.