A pair of Italian walnut cassapance, Lombard 17th century

each with a rectanguar back and seat, the sides of the back and base applied with projecting scrolls, the back and solid front applied with three tablets, the central one with projecting angles, on pierced and scrolled bracket feet

Old marks, chips and scratches commensurate with age. The construction of both differ in that one has a hinged back and the woods used vary. Not all the scrolled sections on the sides are original. There are construction cracks generally, some of which have been filled and some of which are opening up again. There are also some patches. Evidence of old worm which appears active on one of the benches which will have to be treated. Some of the mouldings are replacements, especially those beneath the seat. The loop beneath one of the seats fixes into lock and protrudes on both into seat. In otherwise good conserved condition.Very unusual pair, highly decorative. Recommended. Measurements: 1 of pair: 129cm. high, 224cm. wide, 43cm. deep; 4ft.3in., 7ft.4½ in.,1ft. 5in 2nd of pair: 129cm. high, 229cm. wide, 43cm. deep; 4ft.3in., 7ft.6½ in.,1ft. 5in
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The cassapanca was an ingenious combination of a chest and seat furniture which evolved from the chest and wall bench and first appeared in Italy in the 15th century. It would appear to have originated in Florence, was raised on a dias with one or two steps, and monumental in form and executed with the same superlative craftsmanship that distinguished all Florentine furniture of the period. It was, however, produced in other regions of Italy following on from the Florentine originals. In the homes of the aristocracy and upper classes, the cassapanca enjoyed a prominent position in the living apartment where it would be covered with cushions and the master of the house would hold court whilst seated upon it.