Object Description
An early 17th century (circa 1620) North Italian Cypress wood chest of superb original patina, possibly a marriage chest.
This Cypress chest consists of a two plank top with applied moulding to the front edge with carved decoration.
The top opening to reveal a good storage area with candle holder, the inside of the top also with painted or inked heart decoration, the Cypress wood (similar to cedar) known for being a natural repellent to insects such as moths so is ideal for clothes storage.
This leads down to the front of the chest consisting of carved images of mythical beasts, possibly dragons, with heart symbol to the centre, the carved areas filled with black pitch (or bitumen), the chest also having a lock and working steel key.
The chest having a dovetail construction to each corner, the sides with applied wooden handle supports, these possibly originally fitted with leather or rope handles.
The Cypress chest tended to originate form the Northern regions of Italy often from Venice, Adige or Umbria in the 16th and early 17th centuries, this chest possibly a marriage chest due to the heart symbols and mirrored decoration to the front.
This chest is in very good original condition for age, is of stable construction and can go straight into a home – ideal as a coffee table or great for general storage too.
Size:
Height: 20” / 50.75cm
Width: 20.25” / 127.5cm
Depth: 22.5” / 57cm