Cassone florentine chest-renaissance

Rare and beautiful cassone, elegantly carved and grounded, made of dark walnut wood and walnut magnifying glass. This beautiful florentine cassone is distinguished by a rich decoration adorning the entire frontal and lateral structure. The décor unfolds with pomp on the façade, carved in the mass and confined to the angles of two beautiful acanthus leaves finished in volute. It features a long longitudinal panel hemmed with a string of oves and logs. In the centre, a rectangular frame displays floral rinsings blooming in panache. It frames the central medallion, composed of a chimera, set with a vegetable crown punctuated with flowers patterned with pomegranate seeds and drapery. In the lower part, a rich moulding is carved with stylized leafy patterns. Each side is decorated with a rich rosette decoration and a frieze of godrons. Caryatides are very special in the form of chimeras on the side studs supported by wild legs and floral decoration. The cassole rests at the front on two harmonious feet in the shape of a lion's paw. The upper feller is connected to the body of the furniture by two finely worked wrought iron pentures. It is surrounded by a moulded wood frame, and plated with a curved wood sheet that allows the upper platform to be raised. The proportions, the beauty of the walnut tree and the eminent quality of the sculptures, place this cassone among the exceptional pieces produced by the florentine renaissance, after jerôme savonarole denounced and attempted to destroy the painted model that preceded it. This powerful cassone has a bill very similar to that of the tuscan table which is located at the palazzo davanzati in florence. The 16th century preferred natural wood, with a predilection for walnut. Excellent state of preservation and patina of time. Origin: tuscany, florence (italy).