This beautiful painted and giltwood cassone was hand-carved in Florence, Italy, circa 1850. A cassone is a type of Italian trunk that was often given as a wedding dowry starting in the 16th century. The more elaborate the carvings, the wealthier the family was.

Our cassone has been painted with a rich dark green base, while all the carvings have been gilded. A pair of monopodial feet grace the front of the cassone. Just above the feet is a foliate skirt, which is also seen along the edge of the lid above repeating Vitruvian waves. All three borders continue along the two sides, framing large margents of rinceaux and flowers. The margent on the front façade also features a pair of winged angels flanking an oval coat of arms shield. A winged angel mascaron can be seen hovering above the closed crown that tops the shield. Each corner is comprised of a Solomonic column with spiral fluting embellished with roundels.

Florence Italy is considered by many to be the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it has been producing magnificent art and furnishings for hundreds of years with an emphasis on painted pieces and gilding. The trunk seen here is no exception. It is a circa 1850 contemporary interpretation of a Renaissance piece. With its elaborate decorative carvings and vibrant color, this Florentine cassone would make a great addition to any bedroom. It can be used to store towels, linens, or clothing, while also providing seating at the foot of a bed.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with wear commensurate to age and use, including minor age separations and rubs. Acceptable losses to giltwood. Please see photos for details.