Exceptional italian Renaissance cassone with rich carvings on a gilt backg

The lower part of the facade is adorned with a foliated and fruit garland.

The facade’s central panel bears a low-relief decor framed by a rais-de-cœur frieze. The central scene appears on a gilt background and is flanked by godroon vases. Angels carry heavy festoons while chimaera heads spring from a flower amongst ribbons and scrolls. The panel is framed by two snake-bodied and feather-headed caryatids. The chest stands on bracket feet.

The upper edge of the chest is carved with half-roses motifs and the lid is underlined with a glyph frieze. Two iron hinges secure the lid and wrought iron handles are positioned on the blank lateral panels at each end of the chest.

The cassone is the ultimate Italian Renaissance piece of furniture. Practical because easily movable the chest accompany families during their numerous journeys from one home to another. Their production takes on greater significance during the 16th century and is a common wedding present. The cassone holds the bride’s clothes, jewels and any other beauty items.