ConNext-2021

14 Early 18 th century or not? An Analysis of a remarkable Marquetry Table KEYWORDS: Baroque, marquetry, wood dyeing, prints, MA-XRF. This study presents the preliminary results of an ongoing research into a marquetry table from the collection of the Art & History Museum in Brussels. The table, located in the depot of the museum, was previously dated early 18 th century. With its twisted legs, x-form stretcher and intricate marquetry, the table indisputably exhibits certain baroque features. However, there are several indications that the larger part of the construction is a more recent imitation of baroque furniture. The shape of the stretcher, among other things, only resembles its 18 th century counterparts. Conversely, evidence does indicate that the tabletop is covered with an 18 th century marquetry. The historical characters and floral still lifes on the tabletop fit within the baroque imagery and are likely based on 17 th and 18 th century prints. This would suggest that the craftsman was inspired by contemporaries. Lastly, MA-XRF scanning revealed the presence of various metals, which points to the use of dyestuffs. Further research should allow us to determine whether the dyes can be attributed to the colouring recipes commonly used in the early 18 th century. nele.vanassche[at] student.uantwerpen.be