A fine, late-17th century, Italian, walnut commode retaining its original, elaborate, brass, putti handles and escutcheons, from Mantova in Lombardy

The rectangular top retains the original, lustrous patina, and the edges are faced with solid classical mouldings. The front has four, long drawers each simulated as two short drawers and decorated with raised geometric panels and classical mouldings. The drawers retain the original brass putti, foliate drop handles with accompanying brass putti escutcheons facing the keyholes in the small, central panels with the original iron locks behind. The drawers are lined in an 18th century, floral wallpaper There are ogee mouldings in between each drawer, chamfered at each end, and a moulded plinth above what are probably the original bun feet. Original pine drawer linings and backboards. This cassettone retains an original rich, lustrous colour and patina. Second half of the 17th century.
Length 145 cm., 57 in., Height 112.5 cm., 44 ¼ in., Depth 72.5 cm., 28 ½ in.

This commode is simply but classically embellished in the geometric order and, this combined with its large proportions, gives it understated gravitas. The putti handles and escutcheons are characteristically ornate and a remarkable feature of furniture from this region. The iconography is associated with peace, prosperity, mirth, and love and they are particularly charming.

This commode retains its original mouldings and most likely bun feet. The walnut has matured into a rich, warm colour and developed a lustrous patina. This cassettone would have been made for a substantial household for storing valuable clothing and textiles, hence the lock on each drawer. It would have been placed in a prominent position in the house under the watchful eye of the owner

The province of Mantova, is in Lombardy, Italy. It is situated 30 Km from Verona and 100 Km from Bologna in a strategic geographical position.