Late 16th Century Italian Carved Walnut Cassone (Marriage Chest) of Fine Patina

17th century

Sold by LVS Decorative Arts

Description

A late 16th century (circa 1580) Italian carved walnut cassone or marriage chest of fine patina, probably from the Venetian or Lombardy regions of Italy.

This cassone consists of a solid walnut top with moulded edge and dentil moulding below, the top opening to reveal a metal lock and hinges with a good storage area.

The front consisting of a superbly carved panel with central carved cartouche, a carved mermaid to either side with floral and foliate design, the mermaids flanked by carved lions all surrounded by a carved border, to the outer side of the panel carved lion masks with suspended ribbon and fruits - the mermaids depicted possibly a symbol of fertility, love and life, the lions of strength and courage.

This leads down to a carved moulded edge, the panelled ends with moulded edge below all supported on carved paw feet to the front, one with small losses, and bracket feet to the back.

The Renaissance was the great period of the cassone, although they continued to be made up until and during the 19th century. They have survived often due to the fact they were made in pairs as marriage chests. Also, as they were of such good quality and design the generations who owned them passed them down and they were treasured as works of art.

This cassone is in very good original condition for age with evidence of some old repairs which is to be expected, is of stable construction and can go straight into a home.

This cassone would look stunning as a statement piece against a plain wall in any interior, either old or new, it would also make an ideal coffee table or great for storage in an entrance hall or bedroom etc.

Physical Dimensions

Height

57.8cm (22.76")

Width

165cm (64.96")

Depth

63.5cm (25.00")

Declaration

LVS Decorative Arts has dated this piece to the Before 1700 period.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA822537

Dealers Internal Reference

LVS1257

Dealers Notes

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LVS Decorative Arts is a small family run business based in Suffolk, specialising in an eclectic mix of fine quality and decorative antiques from around the world.

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LAPADA & CINOA member

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All furniture is professionally restored to the highest of standards, using traditional methods, we feel that quality restoration is paramount to the longevity of the piece.

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INSURED DELIVERY INCLUDED IN LIST PRICE WITHIN MAINLAND UK FOR A ONE MAN COURIER SERVICE

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Worldwide shipping available, please contact us for a free quote to include professional packing and fully insured services

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PLEASE NOTE: viewing is 'By Appointment' only - please contact Liza a few days in advance to arrange this.

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Payments are accepted by bank transfer or cheque

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Please contact us if any further high definition photographs are required or please visit our own website as follows where you can zoom in on the photos:

www.lvsdecorativearts.co.uk

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You can contact Liza either by email lvsdecorativearts@btinternet.com or telephone 07703306451

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Please bear in mind: antique items for sale may have some wear and marks commensurate with their age which adds to the character of the piece.

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Thank you for viewing our stock and please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need any further information.

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Description

A late 16th century (circa 1580) Italian carved walnut cassone or marriage chest of fine patina, probably from the Venetian or Lombardy regions of Italy.

“

This cassone consists of a solid walnut top with moulded edge and dentil moulding below, the top opening to reveal a metal lock and hinges with a good storage area.

LVS Decorative Arts

fig 1. Late 16th century Italian carved walnut cassone (marriage chest) of fine patina — fig 1. Late 16th Century Italian Carved Walnut Cassone (Marriage Chest) of Fine Patina

The front consisting of a superbly carved panel with central carved cartouche, a carved mermaid to either side with floral and foliate design, the mermaids flanked by carved lions all surrounded by a carved border, to the outer side of the panel carved lion masks with suspended ribbon and fruits - the mermaids depicted possibly a symbol of fertility, love and life, the lions of strength and courage.

fig 2. Late 16th century Italian carved walnut cassone (marriage chest) of fine patina — fig 2. Late 16th Century Italian Carved Walnut Cassone (Marriage Chest) of Fine Patina

This leads down to a carved moulded edge, the panelled ends with moulded edge below all supported on carved paw feet to the front, one with small losses, and bracket feet to the back.

The Renaissance was the great period of the cassone, although they continued to be made up until and during the 19th century. They have survived often due to the fact they were made in pairs as marriage chests. Also, as they were of such good quality and design the generations who owned them passed them down and they were treasured as works of art.

fig 3. Late 16th century Italian carved walnut cassone (marriage chest) of fine patina — fig 3. Late 16th Century Italian Carved Walnut Cassone (Marriage Chest) of Fine Patina

This cassone is in very good original condition for age with evidence of some old repairs which is to be expected, is of stable construction and can go straight into a home.

This cassone would look stunning as a statement piece against a plain wall in any interior, either old or new, it would also make an ideal coffee table or great for storage in an entrance hall or bedroom etc.