Italian, probably Tuscan, dated 1537

inscribed: + 1537 . IACOBVS . CABV^{S . IERONIMVS . CAZS .}

Overall the condition of the marble is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are small chips and scratches throughout. There are two iron hinges in the front on the right which would have secured a bronze door, now lost. There is a hole in the front on the left for the door latch. The reverse and sides have been left in a roughed out state. There are a few patches of composite material in the back and sides, possibly filling old holes.
"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."

Tabernacles are used to house the consecrated host or relics. Their distinctly architectural form, taken almost to the point of abstraction in this particular example, is due to their association with the Old Testament tabernacle, the locus of God's presence among the Jewish people of which the description provided the model for many early synagogues. The present front would have been embedded in a wall or part of a free-standing structure. The space in its centre, once covered by a bronze door, gave access to a 'room' in which the Eucharist or relics were stored, only to be taken out for distribution or presentation during certain services. The object resembles a temple front with two decorated pilasters and two angels in niches flanking a recessed doorway. A number of similar taberbacles were carved in and around Florence in the 15th century. See for example Mino da Fiesole's tabernacle in the Church of S. Croce (cast V&A Museum, inv. no. REPRO.1886-190).