Armchair en cabriolet

David Roentgen

ca. 1785 · Mahogany, gilt bronze, brass; modern suede upholstery · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Well-known for intricate mechanical furniture and fine marquetry, the production of chairs was never a substantial output of the Roentgen workshop. In contrast to other cabinetmakers, his guild-exempt status allowed David Roentgen to make both case furniture as well as seat furniture. This neoclassical example incorporates an arched top rail with gilt-bronze knobs most likely for the loops of a cushion in order to make the backrest with its coiling serpents more comfortable for the user.

Artist

David Roentgen

Date

ca. 1785

Medium

Mahogany, gilt bronze, brass; modern suede upholstery

Culture

German, Neuwied am Rhein

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Bequest of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 2019