the rectangular top inlaid with roses and butterflies, above a frieze with one drawer revealing a writing board, two pull-out lateral drawers and a further four inner drawers, on square tapered legs

Related references:
- H. Huth, Roentgen Furniture, London, 1974
- D. Fabian, Abraham und David Roentgen, Pfaehler, 1992

The illustration of the catalogue is accurate. Good overall condition despite the usual minor scratches, marks and dents due to age and use. As visible on the illustration, there are some shrinkage cracks on the top. Four small mouldings have been replaced at the top of the legs. The colour of the woods is very nice. High quality of construction as expected for Roentgen.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

David Roentgen (1743-1807), ébéniste méchanicien du roi et de la Reine

This writing table belongs to a group of furniture sharing common characteristics, i.e. shape, structure and pro🎀portions, together with extremely precise marquetry, often with a floral pattern, usually arranged on a maple-sycamore background.

- a table, formerly in the Burat Collecti🐈on, sold by Me Ader, Charpentier Gallery, June 17-18, 1937 (the tray adorned with drapery and a table with Royal attributes)

- a table sold by Me Rheims, Charpentier Gallery, June 14, 1955, lot 56 (with marquetry floral🔥 bouquets and ribbons)

- a table sold at Christౠie's, Paris, November 7, 2012, lot 245 (with floral and ribbon marquetry)

Established in Neuwied in 1742, the Roentgen workshop was renowned for the quality of its craftsmanship, cabinetmaking and marquetry and David Roentgen continued his father's skills and established his business in France🙈. He was well received and commissioned by amongst others, Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette🎃, the Count of Artois and Baron Grimm, acting on behalf of Catherine the Great of Russia.

The particular manner in which marquetry is presented on furniture often allows it to be the signature of the cabinetmaker. Through the use of contrasting wood, colour and shadowing, it allows for the accentuation of the effect, perspective and relief of the subject. The composition in the 🐻present piece is sparse with a particularly innoওvative use of showing the butterflies in various stages of flight.