Precious Carthusian chest richly inlaid with fine woods with chessboard, early 16th century.

Important and precious chest from the full Renaissance period (circa 1500) richly inlaid on the rectangular body in beautiful light walnut grafted onto an ebonized base, with plum, boxwood, blackened oak, and yew woods. The fine decoration is composed of geometric motifs, intricately woven ribbons, and mosaics of rods, flowers, paterae, and two-handled vases. The lid features an inlaid chessboard and opens into three compartments with hinged lids and four small drawers, also finely inlaid. The inside of the lid features a high-quality inlaid cross, probably attributable to an ecclesiastical commission. The two iron handles on the sides suggest that it was originally designed to be easily transported. The internal lock has unfortunately been replaced and has a key. The 32 chess pieces are included, which are a modern work from the early 20th century. Regarding the geographical location of the work, although this type of work is more typical of Central Italy (Umbria, Tuscany, Duchy of Urbino), it is possible to see similarities in workmanship and decoration with Carthusian productions made in Lombardy, especially those intended for the Certosa di Pavia produced between the end of the 15th century and the first half of the 16th century. Its measurements are 66.5 x 44.5 x 28 cm. Conditions are excellent, but the slight deformation of the lid and some interventions to the impressive inlaid veneer should be noted. A certificate of guarantee is included with the sale, certifying its originality and period.