Italian 1600 Cassone, Coffer, Trunk or Armor Chest

A "Cassone" or large chest was the most important family piece of furniture in an Italian "palazzo" or family palace. Rich and showy trophy furniture, this coffer, trunk or armor chest was filled with family treasures as the bride's dowry present.

It would have been presented to a bride at her wedding, as an heirloom from her parents. Dating from the mid to late 1600's, this spectacular Cassone is a real treasure.

Entirely hand crafted of solid walnut, feet are carved dolphins, above are comedy and tragedy masks of classical theater. There are numerous repairs, replaced pieces, mars and losses and beetle holes as would be expected. Back feet are replaced, the damp stone floors cause this typical problem.

The polished finish has marvelous patina, showing the hand planing and sawing marks from master craftsmen centuries ago. Wrought iron handles and hinges are fascinating, the lock is incomplete. This design indicates the Sienna Florence area of Tuscany.

Measurements of this grand and historic trunk or bench are 5' 8" long, 21" deep and 21" tall.

Item # I-C2164