Khan Academy: Construction of an 18th Century French Mechanical Table

In this video [2:02] see why the innovative mechanics and artistry of Jean-Franqois Oeben's table continue to amaze. Created by Getty Museum. The marquetry tabletop surface has a ground of purple heartwood into which thin pieces of other colorful wood are assembled like a jigsaw puzzle. The rest of the table's exterior is covered in a geometric trellis pattern. Ornamental gilt bronze mounts frame and protect vulnerable wood edges. The table is still functional today.