Writing table (bureau plat) 1740 - 1750

This writing table, or bureau plat, was made by Bernard van Risenburgh in the 18th century using wood, lacquer and gilt bronze. The labor involved in creating such a piece would have been extensive. The wooden frame was skillfully carved, then coated in layers of lacquer, a time-consuming process involving the sap of the lacquer tree, native to Asia. Each layer was carefully applied and polished, resulting in a smooth, lustrous surface. The gilt bronze mounts, with their intricate floral and foliate designs, add a layer of opulence. These were cast, chased, and gilded, requiring the expertise of skilled metalworkers. The combination of Asian lacquer and European craftsmanship speaks to global trade networks and the circulation of goods and ideas in the 18th century. The table embodies the Rococo style's emphasis on asymmetry, curves, and ornamental detail. Ultimately, appreciating this bureau plat involves recognizing the many hands and skills that contributed to its creation, and how it reflects the social and economic context of its time.