PORTAL BOOKCASE
carved and gilded walnut wood
This large wooden tabernacle from the Renaissance, later transformed into a bookcase, consists of a large moulded top with frames decorated with ovoids and dentils, and with phytomorphic motifs on the architrave. The columns with Corinthian capitals and fluted shafts that support it rest on two plinths with a noble coat of arms in their centres, with two capital letters above, D and R, probably the initials of the customer. The coat of arms is blazoned as follows: in blue with a lion with leopard spots in natural colours, which lies on a grassy ground, accompanied by a golden star with eight points on top. The shield is superimposed by a helmet decorated with flourishes. The new use of the piece has been facilitated by the extra space created by the removal of the predella, which was originally placed between the pedestals.
The excellent condition of the gilding, which accentuates the architectural elements, deserves particular notice.
Tuscany, 16th century
cm 235x207x73
