A solid mahogany campaign table, early 19th century

The rectangular top rests on two baluster uprights and splayed legs joined by a stretcher. It can be completely disassembled and reassembled using a set of wrought iron screws, and can be stored or transported in a space no larger than its top.

In its shape and modularity, this table is similar to the set of campaign tables supplied by Jacob-Desmalter in 1807 for the Emperor's dining room at the Palais de Compiègne, which were made up of several rectangular units, similar to this one, that could be completely dismantled.

Designed to be assembled and disassembled at will, easy to transport, sturdy and quick and easy to set up, this table, with its sober lines - minimalist for the time - provided officers with comfort during military campaigns; it could be used as a desk, a map table or a dining table.
Various models of these dismountable tables for military use are known, from the very simple small folding table attributed to Jacob-Desmalter in the Mobilier National Collection (GME 950/2) to the more elaborate Biennais table in the Lagerfeld Collection (Christie's Monaco, Lagerfeld Collection, 29 April 2000, lot 255).