Circa 1800 Cassone Marriage Chest

Item Details

An 1800s Italian style cassone or marriage chest. This gilt chest includes a beautiful gesso painted front panel very similar in design to a section of the famous painting by the Italian artist, Lo Scheggia in 1450, depicting the procession of the wealthy merchant Florentine Adimari family. The front of the marriage chest includes three sections divided by half column barley twists, with a wreath surrounding a floral filled urn on either side of the center painted scene. Each panel is inscribed in latin with words for courage/ardor, love and affection. The rounded top hinged lid includes heraldry, painted with a central rampant red dragon on a white shield, and a laurel wreath surrounding a small shield half gold tone and blue on either side and other floral carvings. The chest ends are detailed with a four sectioned shields with gold tone fleur-de-lis on alternating gold tone and red fields and ornate handle hardware. This trunk includes a separate matching wood stand with a unique stepped base. Chests such as this were once the most elaborate piece of furniture in a household, designed to instruct and delight, usually a gift from a brides parents to a bride.

• A mover will be available at the property for assistance at pickup.

Condition

Consistent with age and use. Clearly some visible wear in various locations on the trunk.

Dimensions

Item #

15CIN283-008