Lot 281: Italian Relief Carved Walnut Cassone, Paw Feet

An Italian relief carved walnut cassone or wedding chest, rounded rectangular top with dentil molding, central carved cartouche flanked by carved panels, female figural carved applied ends, carved renaissance style base molding, and four paw feet. An interior fitted with a till to the left side and paneled sides with iron strap handles. Colby's Department Store tag (Chicago) en verso and a handwritten "Made in Italy" label. 24" H x 66" W x 22 3/4" D. 17th century with later added elements. Note: Museum notes indicate that this piece descended through the Colonna Family.

PROVENANCE: Deaccessioned by the Vanderbilt University Museum of Art to benefit the acquisitions fund.

CONDITION: Scattered insect damage. Top with horizontal wood shrinkage running the entire width with contemporary wooden reinforcing battens underside. Patch repair to the left side of the lid. Back top edge with losses to right side. Right side panel with wood shrinkage and wear. Left female figure with losses to one foot. Shrinkage to the base with one area of replacement. Platform blocking for the feet appears later with the rear feet possible later.