Small 17th-century Italian Cabinet

This delightful small cabinetexemplifies the elegance of Italian craftsmanship in the 17thcentury.

It is crafted from ebonized pearwood,ebony, and engraved bone, featuring a beautifully architecturalfaçade that opens to reveal seven drawers—with the bottom rowforming a single wide drawer—and a door concealing four additionaldrawers.

The engraved bone ornamentation followsa geometric rhythm, centering on a depiction of Orpheus holding hislyre.

The drawer decorations illustrate how,through this musical instrument, Orpheus could charm not only men andgods but also animals, plants, and even trees and rocks, which wouldrush to gather around him.

A Greek key frieze frames andhighlights this charming decorative scheme.

The cornices feature intricateguilloché carving executed in precious ebony.

This cabinet was designed for travel;it served to store the jewelry, documents, and other personal items anobleman would take with him. Yet, through its decorative refinementand the richness of its materials, it also symbolizes themagnificence of its wealthy owner.

Dimensions: W 60 cm x H 43 cm x D 26 cm

Italy

Ebonized pearwood, bone, ebony

17th century