This finely carved Italian walnut table-top cassone, late 16th / early 17th century, is richly ornamented in the Renaissance manner. The rectangular molded top is set above a carved egg-and-dart frieze, while the front is centered by a shield-shaped cartouche flanked by winged putti amid scrolling foliage. Pendant acanthus carving frames the front at either side, with a boldly gadrooned molding defining the lower edge. Particularly appealing are the unusual projecting feet, vigorously carved as lion heads with flowing manes. The interior retains its original fitted till with hinged lid, while the substantial walnut construction and hand-worked surfaces are characteristic of early Italian furniture.
Width 19", depth 14", height 9".
Condition: Wear commensurate with age. Missing lock. Retains its original lion head feet.
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