Contador Cabinet Original Stand Rosewood Vinhático Portuguese Brass Tremidos
11677
A STRIKING, MUSEUM QUALITY, BAROQUE, PORTUGUESE BRAZILIAN, ROSEWOOD & VINHÁTICO CONTADOR OR CABINET ON STAND WITH BRASS MOUNTS - Masterpiece of carved ornament, with tremidos or fluted, ripple-effect drawer fronts, deep mouldings exhibiting a variety of intricate techniques & patterns, magnificent scrollwork apron on the stand and boldly, turned legs - In exceptional condition retaining the original pierced brass mounts, locks, iron keys and elaborate carrying handles - The pierced brassware creates reflective contrasts with the dark wood. This in combination with the variety of edges, patterns and forms creates interplay between light and shadow which is striking and illuminating, particularly at night. - The front is fitted with four double and four single drawers simulating a front of twelve drawers to create symmetry. - Original stand with magnificent, sculptural, scrollwork apron and boldly turned, multi-variant legs united by similarly turned stretchers on bun feet - Much prized finely, figured hardwood grain which has not been coated with ebonised varnishes in the 19tht century as is customary. Retaining the original, rare, untouched patina.
- Private Collection, Lisbon by descent, reputedly in the house for hundreds of years, hence the original condition. - This is as good an example of these elaborate Portuguese cabinets, which are virtuoso displays of carved and turned artistry, that I have ever seen. - The tremidos or fluted, ripple-effect drawer fronts are carved in deep relief creating a striking visual effect of spacious movement within the front, reflecting light and shadow. - The pierced brassware creates contrast in colour and enhance the depth of the relief and reflection of light. - The deep mouldings exhibit a variety of sophisticated, intricate, carved, techniques and patterns framing the drawer fronts, sides, top and bottom of the cabinet, creating a rich, texture and tacticity. - The crisply carved scrollwork front of the stand is magnificent and framed by the carving more modest carving on the sides - The boldly turned legs create gravitas holding the presence of this extraordinary cabinet.
Length 93cm., 37 inches Overall Height 147cm., 58 inches Cabinet height 46cm., 18 inches Depth 39cm., 15¼ inches
17th Century
c1650
Brass,Rosewood
Portugal
Collectors
Baroque (Of the period)
Joinery
GOOD. Wear consistent with age and use.
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