Italian Modernist Sculptural Cerused Oak Dry Bar Cabinet, circa 1940

Italian Modernist Sculptural Cerused Oak Dry Bar Cabinet, circa 1940

An extraordinary and unique Italian modernist carved cerused oak cabinet that seamlessly unites architectural woodwork with fine artisan metalcraft. Hand-crafted from rich and warm oak, the case is elevated on dramatic, stylized A-frame supports.

The facade features four inset, hand-embossed copper plaques, set within scalloped carved wood surrounds, depicting whimsical and charming animal motifs: The first, a waterbird standing among reeds with its talon resting upon a fish. The delicate hammering highlights fine textures along the bird's plumage and crest. The second panel features a striking mythological heraldic lion or beast, depicted in profile with its forepaw pinning a coiled, scaled serpent. Surrounded by four-pointed stars and a small bird in flight, the repoussé work demonstrates excellent dimensional detail and a warm patina. The image depicts the constellation Leo (the Lion) standing directly over or conquering the massive, winding constellation Hydra (the Water Serpent). In ancient times, the sun entered the sign of Leo during the peak of summer. The lion pins down the serpent to symbolize the Sun (Solar Light/Leo) destroying the darkness and cold of winter (the underworld/Hydra). The third panel showcases a stylized aquatic scene, highlighting a seahorse positioned beside branches of coral, a sea star, a seashell, a small crab and a rising trail of air bubbles. The fourth panel illustrates a proud, crowing rooster positioned beneath a stylized, smiling sun, flanked by small birds in flight and gentle cloud formations.

When the central carved doors are opened, the cabinet transforms into a sophisticated dry bar, the interior in mahogany, complete with a central inset mirror plate above a working surface, beneath which are small drawers with brass knobs. On the left hand side are three delicate brass door galleries, with glass shelves, designed for glass and bottle display. The right hand inside door has a drop-down wooden surface. The two side doors with the copper plaques open to reveal inset carved wood partitions for storage and organization of books/papers, or textiles. Featuring original brass escutcheon and intricate ridged door paneling, this rare piece stands out as a true statement of the creativity and craftsmanship of Italian artisanal design. All original. Likely custom made for a fine Tuscan house.
Tuscany, Italy, circa 1940's
Size: 54 3/4" high x 57 1/4" wide x 17" deep