Who painted Dutch marqueterie table, ca. 1700?

Dutch marqueterie table, ca. 1700 was painted by Florence Collins in 1850.

Where can I see Dutch marqueterie table, ca. 1700?

Dutch marqueterie table, ca. 1700 is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Dutch marqueterie table, ca. 1700

Dutch marqueterie table, ca. 1700 is a drawing by Florence Collins. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The work is a preparatory drawing dated to the early eighteenth century that records the design of a drawer front from a Dutch marquetry table. Executed in pen and wash, it captures the intricate inlay pattern intended for a wooden surface, serving as a visual plan rather than a finished decorative piece.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a symmetrical floral motif, featuring a central branch rendered with deep‑green foliage and reddish‑brown blossoms. The flowers vary between five‑petaled forms and more rounded shapes, creating a balanced ornamental scheme that would have guided the placement of contrasting wood veneers.

Technique & Style

Rendered with fine linear strokes and subtle shading, the drawing conveys the texture of different wood tones through tonal variation. A dark border outlined with gold‑colored scrollwork and stylized leaves frames the design, indicating the intended contrast between darker and lighter marquetry elements.

Context

A faint inscription in the lower corner reads "Florence Collins," identifying the drafter. The modest signature suggests the work functioned as a workshop document, likely used by craftsmen to translate the design onto the actual table surface.