A Roentgen at Rathfarnham? The Earl of Ely's Writing Desk at Rathfarnham Castle

On display at Rathfarnham Castle is a wooden, roll top cabinet, with intricate and elegant marquetry reminiscent of the work of renowned father and son cabinet makers Abraham and David Roentgen, who operated in Germany during the second half of the 18th century. It is possible but not certain that this cabinet is the work of one or both of them; it is also possible that it is a piece executed by another anonymous, perhaps less auspicious, cabinet maker, influenced by the brilliance of the father and son duo.

This event will comprise a talk focusing on the background to the Roentgens cabinet making careers and assess what evidence there is for their involvement in the construction of this particular piece. There will also be an opportunity to view the piece of furniture in question.