Noël Ribes | Viceroyalty of Peru, XVIIth century

A large embossed and incised leather chest, entirely decorated with foliated scrolls.

Technique: Wood, leather, wrought iron

Dimensions: 37 x 105 x 53 cm

Condition: Good, some old restorations

A large leather-covered wooden chest with a curved lid, handles and an iron lock. The entire surface, made of embossed and engraved leather, is richly decorated with intertwined stems and flowers and geometric motifs.

At a time when the mobility and security of goods was paramount, the adaptability of the chest made it the most important piece of furniture for the upper classes. Large chests were used for storing and transporting clothes, linen and silver. This large example is entirely covered with thick, high-quality leather, and has two iron handles on the sides for carrying, as well as a front lock made of the same material to secure the contents.

Spanish leatherwork originated and became famous in Cordoba in the Muslim period ("cordobanes"), from where it was successfully exported throughout Europe for centuries, being used in furniture such as benches, chests or armchairs to give them strength and attractive finishes.

From the 17th century, as a result of the continuous relations with the American colonies, the manufacture of leather-covered chests and chests was also developed there, but with an exuberant decoration of plant and animal motifs characteristic of Peru and Mexico; this furniture was destined to satisfy the demand of the high dignitaries of the Viceroyalty of Peru, most of whom were Spaniards who came to occupy political and administrative posts in the colonies.

More photos available on demand.

Price on request

Ref N100

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