Italian
Writing Table, 19th century
Mahogany and satinwood , 74.9 x 57.2 x 41.9 cm (29 1/2 x 22 1/2 x 16 1/2 in.)
General admission for children 17 years and under is always free
This Italian rectangular writing table is satinwood (yellow with a slight red tinge) and mahogany (a rich brown). The front and side mahogany surfaces are surrounded by narrow inlaid satinwood strips. The long slim legs are stacked small pieces of mahogany alternating with similar satinwood pieces, except for the last few bottom inches, which are all satinwood. The legs are braced by curving mahogany "arms" attached just above the satinwood bottom. They meet in the center, joined to a circular mahogany anchoring piece topped by a finial (crowned ornament). The writing desk is hinged, and has a dark top that is deteriorating. You can see flecks of pink underneath the worn surface.
Macknight Room
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.