Flamboyant gothic cassone chest

This chest stands on a high moulded plinth. It was made from a fine walnut wood and shows good traces of polychromy and gold leaf decor.

The facade’s two panels, once colourful, are divided by a Gothic fenestration element. The lateral panels are enriched with a painted lozenge in its centre.

Once opened the chest reveals an empty space on one side and four drawers (the first is still) on the other side, hidden by a movable panel.

Interlacing and arches compose a low-relief gilt fenestration decor upon a red background on the drawers, the panel and the interior.
A rose used to embellish the bottom of the chest.

This type of chest is quite rare and was commissioned by wealthy patrons who could afford both colourful polychromy and gold leaf decor.

This cassone illustrates the confluence of diverse Italian influences. From Venice comes the Gothic fenestration decor while the high plinth and divided facade marks an influence from Milan.