Adjustable reading and writing table (pupitre à crémaillère, servant de table)

Martin Carlin was a prominent French ébéniste (cabinet maker) who worked in Paris in the mid-18th century. Born in Germany around 1730, he moved to Paris as a young man to pursue a career in furniture making. Carlin quickly gained recognition for his exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, which combined traditional French styles with elements of the emerging neoclassical movement. Carlin's furniture was characterised by elegant simplicity, refined proportions and exquisite attention to detail. He was particularly noted for his use of exotic woods such as mahogany, ebony and satinwood, and his skilful incorporation of marquetry, gilt bronze mounts and other decorative elements. Carlin's clients included some of the most prominent figures at the French court, including King Louis XV and his mistress Madame de Pompadour. He also worked for wealthy aristocrats and collectors throughout Europe, producing a wide range of furniture including chests of drawers, desks, tables and cabinets. Despite his success, Carlin's career was cut short by his untimely death in 1785. However, his legacy lives on through his innovative designs and the influence he had on the development of French furniture making in the 18th century. Today, his pieces are sought after by collectors and museums around the world for their exceptional quality and historical significance.