17th Century Mantuan Cutaway Credenza

Mantuan credenza measuring 200 x 118 x 62 cm from the early 17th century, made entirely of walnut wood both inside and out. The rectangular cutaway structure is enriched by pilaster strips framing the two doors, which are decorated with mirrors with geometric bas-relief panels in the late Renaissance architectural tradition. Furthermore, this credenza has beveled corners, due to the cutaway design, according to Tuscan styles of the High Renaissance. The pure line of the era's vocabulary is fully respected, and the volume and general layout anticipate solutions that would only develop in northern Italy towards the end of the 17th century. The beveled top tends to lighten the considerable thickness of the walnut. The Mantuan scheme of this credenza is unmistakable, with two doors separated by a central pillar section and two small side doors almost at an angle, giving balance, rhythm, and harmony to the piece of furniture itself. All parts of the furniture are marked by applied panels with a linear design characterized by a vertical progression. A piece of furniture that expresses elegance and sobriety following still-Renaissance canons and, above all, a symmetry of shapes. The paintings and art objects published here are my exclusive property, and consequently, they are always available for viewing in person, by appointment, at my exhibition locations situated in Sanremo and Brescia. The work, like all our objects, is sold with a FIMA photographic certificate of authenticity and legal provenance; this document identifies the object, adding value to the item. We personally handle and organize the packaging and shipping of works of art with insurance worldwide. Dr. Riccardo Moneghini Art Historian