In the collection ofArt Institute of Chicago
Writing Desk, Jacques Dubois (born France, 1694–1763), c. 1745–49, Oak, pine, mahogany, kingwood, gesso, paint, gilding, var…
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Desk · France

Writing Desk

Jacques Dubois (born France, 1694–1763) · France · c. 1745–49

Letter writing became a fashionable accomplishment among the aristocratic and professional classes during the 1700s, creating a demand for refined and specialized accessories like this portable writing desk. The desk's surface is decorated to mimic Asian lacquer, a highly labor-intensive finish made from multiple layers of tree resin. These writing desks served not only as practical tools but also as fashionable symbols of refinement and cultured taste.

— Art Institute of Chicago, catalogue text
Medium
Oak, pine, mahogany, kingwood, gesso, paint, gilding, varnish, gilded bronze, leather, pewter, and iron
Dimensions
93.4 × 81.3 × 46.4 cm (36 3/4 × 32 × 18 1/4 in.)
Accession
1973.385
Credit line
Purchased with funds provided by Elizabeth R. Vaughan and Mrs. Henry C. Wood; gift of Mrs. Potter Palmer; Robert Allerton, Robert Allerton Surplus, Mary L. Stevenson, Wirt D. Walker, Decorative Arts Purchase, and other funds

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