A hall bench Northern French, 16th century

carved oak, the moulded top above a panel centred by a seraphim flanked by winged horses terminating in dragons and scrolling foliage, flanking a coat of arms, the rectangular back with six raised panels, above a rectangular seat, the sides similarly carved to the back with foliate carved brackets, on block feet

Very few Renaissance benches have survived. With its high back and simple supports, the present bench is reminiscent of Gothic throne armchairs. The frieze is clearly inspired by the Italian Renaissance. This bench reflects the status of the sitters and this is due to the fact that the honour of being seated next to the prince was known as `avoir les honneurs  du banc' .