Antique Genovese walnut chest/chest of drawers, 17th century

Ancient Genovese-style walnut cabinet from 1700, veneered and fluted on a wavy front, with three large drawers and two rounded smaller drawers beneath the calatoia.

The front cabinet features foldable doors that, when lowered forward, create a large desk surface. The calatoia is hidden within a side drawer and several open compartments. 

This is a Genoese-origin office, with solid walnut sides, protruding wooden frames, and shelf legs. It is in good condition, showing signs of use consistent with 18th-century dating, and comes from a private Milanese residence.

Beautiful antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage products that possess a specific character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

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Empire-style furniture and accessories originate from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, influenced by Napoleon’s reign. This style features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next style is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces designed to radiate splendor and play a prominent role in luxury. Unique materials were selectively used to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is often designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. The Renaissance style also left a significant mark, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and greatly impacting furniture craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, often using brown stains, cornices, strong bases, and relief decorations. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times inspired many details, with supports and legs taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common features in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, inspired by Italian and French artisans. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, giving each style a unique character. This is especially important when searching for an elegant antique that suits your interior.

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