Mauter Conrad

(1742 - 1810)

Literature:
Originally from Germany, Conrad MAUTER established himself as an independent craftsman at the age of twenty-six on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine. Historical records indicate that his name appeared in various forms, including Motet, Motaire, Maulhert, and Mautar.
He earned his master’s certificate in 1777 and, a few years later, became an appointed supplier to the Count of Artois (later Charles X). He provided numerous furnishings for the Palais du Temple, the Pavilion of Bagatelle, and the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye—creating lavish pieces for the count and more modest ones for his household staff. Many prominent figures of the kingdom were among his clientele.
In 1791, Louis XVI entrusted him with the creation of several commodes and a wardrobe ensemble—comprising a bedside table, an armchair, and a bidet—for the Château de Saint-Cloud, where the king intended to host the Court. During the Directoire and Consulate periods, his table production increased significantly, and his workshop continued expanding until the end of his life. Following his passing, Nicolas Louis Sandrine acquired his atelier.
MAUTER produced a vast collection of Louis XVI-style furniture, including commodes, compact writing desks (both flat and roll-top), and bookcases, predominantly crafted from mahogany. His pieces were distinguished by their refined and understated aesthetic, often featuring copper-trimmed moldings. However, he gained particular recognition for his expertise in table-making, producing a variety of designs such as dining tables, gaming tables, writing tables, guéridons, and bedside tables—most of which were made from mahogany. Only a handful of his works showcased geometric marquetry or rosewood veneer.

Le Mobilier Français du XVIIIème Siècle – Pierre Kjellberg – Les Éditions de l’Amateur – 2002
Les ébénistes du XVIIIe siècle – Comte François de Salverte – Les Éditions d’Art et d’Histoire – 1934