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A large 18th Century Balkan Adriatic Coast Bridal Chest

About the Item

This is an exquisite example of bridal chest showcasing all the features of a distinctive Balkan type produced alongside the Adriatic coast. This type of bridal chest was connected to the local folk customs and it had very important role in a life of female members of a family, since in it the dowry was stored and on the wedding’s day the chest was ritually carried in the wedding’s procession, from a bride’s to a groom’s home. The frontal side of the chest is elaborately carved with a traditional composition of vases with flowers flanked by birds alternating with zones filled with carved cypress trees. Still it is interesting to notice that vernacular craftsmen incorporated in their work some features taken from the Western – European stiles, and on the Adriatic coast area the Italian influences were the predominant ones. That is clearly visible on this particular chest which has frontal feet in a form of lion’s paws which is a characteristic reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance chests. Two iron handles are mounted on the lateral sides of the chest. The decorative motives used for ornamenting the bridal chests have certain symbolical meanings. Motive of flowers issuing from a vase is a symbol of tree of life, and as such also a symbol of birth of a new life. The cypress tree is often depicted on the chests from the Adriatic coast area. Since it is a vernacular tree species it could be interpreted as a symbol of the one’s birth place and home. Besides in Christianity cypress is a symbol of permanence, persistence, virtue and justness.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 29.14 in (74 cm)Width: 72.84 in (185 cm)Depth: 26.38 in (67 cm)
  • Style:
    Renaissance (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1780-1800
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages.
  • Seller Location:
    Belgrade, RS
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10283243793932

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