Monumental 17th century Paint Decorated, Parcel Gilt, with Marquetry, Baroque Walnut Cassone, H:4'4" W:7' D:3'6" The rectangular hinged top opening to an interior fitted with a till and drawers over a conforming case with arched panels polychrome decorated with heraldic emblems divided by fluted pilasters ending in a stepped outset base. A further description of Continental antique furniture: From the beginning of the Renaissance in the early 15th century, there were changes in furniture forms that were to spread over Europe. The growth of a wealthy and powerful bourgeoisie caused the building of more substantial houses and a demand for good furniture. The furniture of the early Italian Renaissance into the Baroque Period were carved in walnut, for more elaborate work, sculpture in low relief and stucco modelled in intricate patterns were much used. In general the cassone, or marriage coffer (hope chest), was a form on which the craftsman's skill was lavished. In addition to elaborate relief work and gilding, these coffers often were painted on the front and sides and occasionally inside the lid as well, with appropriate biblical or mythological scenes. Motifs popular with the Italianesque and European carvers usually included cupids, grotesque masks, scrolled foliage, and strapwork. This particular Baroque Paint Decorated with Gilt, Marquetry Coffer, is an early example of an exquisite Coffer with the arched panels that are polychrome decorated with Heraldic Emblems each divided by engaged fluted pilasters, a rare example. The Armorial and the art that deal with the use, display, and regulation of hereditary symbols employed to distinguish individuals, armies, from the 12th century, and in that period there were men who supervised festivities and delivered invitations to guests were often the same minstrels who, and after tournaments and battles, they extolled the virtues and deeds of the victors. The evolution of Heralds can be identified in the descriptions of tournaments from about 1170, as the minstrels recounted the deeds and virtues of their masters and their masters' ancestors, their interest in genealogy developed. This new skill was related to their tournament duties, which included the necessity to recognize the banners and shields of all those invited to attend. As heraldry developed its elaborate technical language and as armorial display expanded in subsequent centuries, so the importance and consequent status of heralds grew. Heraldry originated when most people were illiterate but could easily recognize a bold, striking, and simple design. The use of heraldry in medieval warfare enabled combatants to distinguish one mail-clad knight from another and thus to distinguish between friend and foe. Thus, simplicity was the principal characteristic of medieval heraldry. In the tournament there was a more elaborate form of heraldic design. When heraldry was no longer used on body armour and heraldic devices had become a part of civilian life, intricate designs evolved with esoteric significance different from the heraldry's original purpose as used in early history to identify the owner or master. Like all other human creations, heraldic art has reflected the changes of fashion, exampled in this early Coffer are the Heraldic Emblems which makes it quite unique for any decor. Located in the heart of Summerland, California, Lifestyle Antiques & Interiors offers the finest high-end Antiques, Decorative Arts, and Home Furnishings on the South Coast. We feature a rich collection from Europe, specializing in Italian Furniture, French and Spanish. The elegant collection varies from antique and Murano lamps, decorative pillows, Chandeliers, Mirrors and a fine selection of home furnishings. Just 3 minutes south of Santa Barbara. For your convenience you may shop on line: www.lifestyleantiques.com.

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