Cassonne Chest Cassone Sarcophagus 16th Century

Very rare exceptional 16th century Italian Renaissance cassone chest in the shape of a sarcophagus in molded walnut carved in a rectangular shape and in trapeze with cartouche decoration in the center circled with olive branch and framed with gadroons, the angles present a decoration of large acanthus leaves resting on four claw feet. The cassone is a 16th century Italian chest generally corresponding to an engagement or wedding gift. Very à la The cassone is a 16th century Italian chest generally corresponding to an engagement or wedding gift. Very fashionable during the Italian Renaissance, its shape is inspired by the ancient marble sarcophagus and Renaissance tombs. The cassone housed the clothes, dishes and precious objects of the house. The subjects that decorate the leaves and the panels are generally allegories, the crests and coats of arms are carved into the furniture. The decoration of these chests shows the wealth of its owner to become true works of art.