Tambour Writing Table

Currently not on view

Tambour Writing Table

1790-1805

Attributed to Daniel Trotter (American, 1747–1800) Attributed to Ephraim Haines (American, 1775–1837) Made for Robert Waln (American, 1765–1836)

Desired for their technically innovative ability to roll open, tambour tops are formed by gluing long, narrow molding strips of mahogany to linen. Robert Waln, a wealthy merchant, originally owned this desk and likely purchased it from Daniel Trotter or Trotter's son-in-law and successor, Ephraim Haines. The candle arms are not marked and could have been acquired from a local Philadelphia silversmith or from one of many British suppliers.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Tambour Writing Table

Date:

1790-1805

Artists:

Attributed to Daniel Trotter (American, 1747–1800) Attributed to Ephraim Haines (American, 1775–1837) Made for Robert Waln (American, 1765–1836)

Medium:

Mahogany, mahogany veneer, maple, white cedar, silver plate, silver, brass

Dimensions:

40 1/4 × 39 1/2 × 24 3/4 inches (102.2 × 100.3 × 62.9 cm) Height (of writing surface): 28 3/4 inches (73 cm)

Classification:

Furniture/Furnishings

Credit Line:

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. R. Alexander Montgomery, 1984

Accession Number:

1984-98-2

Geography:

Made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North and Central America

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Currently not on view