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16th Century Italian Renaissance Painted Marble Lacquer Wooden Cabinet (1500s)
About the Item
An extraordinary Italian Renaissance wooden cabinet from the 1500s awaits the discerning collector. This antique lacquered furniture piece, dating back to the 16th century, showcases a sophisticated design and a breathtaking lacquer finish painted to obtain a marble effect that exemplifies the pinnacle of Renaissance craftsmanship.
This rare armoire or cabinet embodies the artistic mastery of 16th-century Italian artisans. The exquisite marbleized finish, meticulously applied using advanced lacquering techniques of the era, transforms this wooden storage chest into a true work of art. The skilled manipulation of pigments creates an illusion of veined marble, a testament to the Renaissance fascination with classical materials and trompe l'oeil effects.
The cabinet's exterior is a masterpiece of decorative artistry. Yellow ochre lacquer alternates with marbleized sections, creating a visually striking effect. On the doors and sides, the marbleized areas are elegantly framed by a darker green/blackish lacquered band, adding depth and sophistication to the overall design. This interplay of colors and textures immediately draws the eye and speaks to the refined tastes of its original noble owners.
Originating from a noble family's collection in Northern Italy, this ornate cupboard or wardrobe has been cherished and preserved through the centuries within the same lineage. Its provenance speaks to the refined tastes of Renaissance aristocracy and adds a layer of historical significance to its already impressive artistic value.
Its exceptional state of conservation speaks volumes about its cherished status and careful stewardship through the ages.
The cabinet's structure, crafted from fine Italian wood, demonstrates the superior cabinetmaking skills of the 1500s, whispering tales of 16th-century craftsmanship.
From the hand-carved wood elements to the original iron nails, each component is a testament to the artisanal skills of the Renaissance period.
Every joint, carving, and decorative element reflects the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of high Renaissance furniture making. The painted marble effect, applied with remarkable precision, covers the exterior, it’s applied with remarkable precision by master lacquer artists, creating a striking visual impact that would have been the pride of any 16th-century palazzo.
The interior, lined with exquisite damask fabric, further underscores its luxury and refinement.
Distinctive Features:
- A precious and visually striking "reverse castle" lock mechanism
- An elegant top molding with a generous scoop detail
- Hand-forged iron joints shaped like lance heads
- Feet adorned with decorative curls, elevating the design beyond mere functionality
- Unique door design: the main door opens fully, while a fixed panel remains in place, adding structural integrity and visual interest
- Wonderful Original Patina
Interior Design and Functionality:
The cabinet's interior reveals three conveniently placed shelves, efficiently designed for storage or display. These shelves can be repositioned or removed, offering versatility to suit various needs. The left door closes with an original, discreetly placed hook under the shelf, ensuring easy access and operation while maintaining a clean aesthetic. The doors close by turning the knob horizontally, securing the panel in place.
Construction and Versatility:
The cabinet's construction is truly remarkable. Appreciate the hand-gouged wooden parts and the authentic aged appearance of the wood on the back and underside, complete with marks of manual construction (including dovetail joints and mortise and tenon connections). Designed for practicality, it can be easily disassembled into four pieces, facilitating transportation and reassembly.
Multipurpose Elegance:
With its refined elegance and manageable dimensions, this cabinet adapts effortlessly to various rooms and functions:
Linen storage for sheets, tablecloths, and blankets
A distinctive armoire or wardrobe
A showcase cupboard for porcelain collections or precious objects
An exceptional bookcase, Its adaptable interior, originally designed for storing precious items and clothing, easily accommodates a collection of valuable tomes or manuscripts, making it an ideal addition to a refined study or library.
Styling Suggestion:
Consider leaving one door ajar to reveal the immaculate craftsmanship of the interior. The natural, unlacquered wood inside not only demonstrates the cabinet's quality but also speaks to its significance - a hallmark of premium furniture from this era.
This late 16th-century Italian cabinet is more than a storage solution; it's a statement piece that embodies Renaissance artistry and aristocratic heritage. Its sophisticated lacquer work and intricate design make it a true collector's item, perfect for those seeking to own a piece of Italian Renaissance craftsmanship at its finest.
Dimensions: W. 173 cm, D. 65 cm, H. 250 cm
The owners have had a custom-made wooden walnut base constructed as a plinth to elevate the cabinet, allowing the original lacquer finish to be preserved during cleaning and maintenance. This base will be included with the sale, and the new owner can choose whether to utilize it. The top section of the cabinet is 20 cm wider than the base, creating an elegant, protruding silhouette.
- Dimensions:Height: 98.43 in (250 cm)Width: 68.12 in (173 cm)Depth: 25.6 in (65 cm)
- Style:Renaissance (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1500s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Firenze, IT
- Reference Number:Seller: Galleria Antonio Esposito di Chiara Esposito, Florence, Italy 1stDibs: LU950345469312
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Firenze, Italy
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