George enjoyed works of furniture of unusual or novel construction, such as this desk, which contains a reading slope and hidden drawers that spring out when the lock is released. The German-born Roentgen developed mechanical pieces of furniture of such precision and technical perfection that his work was highly sought after throughout Europe. This desk was believed to have come from the French royal collection, which may have added to its desirability.

Possibly in the collection of Louis XVI at Versailles; purchased in 1820.