Combined writing and dressing table

This combined writing and dressing table is an example of mechanical furniture. It can be opened out to reveal a central reversible mirror and writing panel, and compartments on either side. It opens and closes with the aid of a cog system. The veneer probably dates from the 19th century, and it originally may have had floral marquetry. The table is branded underneath 'CT' beneath a crown (for the Chateau de Trianon); 'MA' within a circle reading 'GARDE MEUBLE DE LA REINE' (for the household of Marie Antoinette) and marked in ink 'Du No.17' (the inventory number of the Chateau de Trianon). These stamps relate to the private GardMeuble (furniture warehouse) of Marie Antoinette, queen consort (1774-1792) of Louis XVI of France. The Garde Meuble was established in 1784-5 to manage the movement of royal furniture from palace to palace, and pieces were identified by numbers and other markings. Purchased with the aid of the Victoria & Albert Museum Purchase Grant Fund, The Art Fund and the Friends of the Bowes Museum. Size: Height: 76 cm; Length: 112 cm; Depth (closed) 55 cm.

Collection

Bowes Museum

Inventory Number

1576191

Title

Combined writing and dressing table

Object Type

Image

Measurements

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