Work and writing table

Bernard II van Risenburgh

ca. 1755–60 · Oak, tulipwood, root-cut kingwood, gilt bronze and silvered metal · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

This small work and writing table by Bernard II van Risenburgh is made of oak veneered with tulipwood and end-cut kingwood, and mounted with gilt bronze. The hinged top opens to reveal a partitioned recess divided into three sections. A separate drawer opens on the right side of the table, which contains a narrow compartment with a silvered metal inkwell, a trough for a sponge, and a box for sand to blot up excess ink. Although not nearly as ornate as the Asian-style lacquered corner cabinets produced by van Risenburgh in the museum’s collection (1983.185.2a, b), this piece demonstrates the persistent Rococo aesthetic found throughout the master cabinetmaker’s work, and his care in coordinating asymmetrical gilt-bronze mounts with the serpentine outline of the small table.

Artist

Bernard II van Risenburgh

Date

ca. 1755–60

Medium

Oak, tulipwood, root-cut kingwood, gilt bronze and silvered metal

Culture

French, Paris

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 1977