A fine Dutch carved oak 'beeldenkast' Renaissance, first half 17th century

with an overhanging cornice above a frieze carved with fruit filled tazze, flanked by birds and scrolling foliage interposted by masks, above two cupboard doors flanked by the female figures of virtues depicting Hope, Faith and Charity, the lower section with two doors interposed by demi-fluted columns, the panelled front carved with religious themes, panelled sides, frieze drawer flanked by lion masks and similarly carved upperfrieze, on stile feet

Comparative Literature:

Sluyterman 1947, p. 161, ill. 217

Baarsen 1993, p.24

Champier 1925, pl. 39

Four-door cupboards with three or more fully sculpted figures are known as statue cupboards or beeldenkasten. The earliest example of this type is dated 1622. The three statues on the top row represent the three virtues Faith (holding a book and keeping her hand on her chest), Charity (a mother with her children), and Hope (holding a dove and anchor).

Cupboards like these were important commissions and costly ones, as the furniture maker had to surpass his more traditional way of working and introduce the fine art of sculpting into his creations. They are generally thought to have been executed in Amsterdam and Hoorn, mainly by Antwerp craftsmen who took refuge in these areas.