An Italian carved walnut chest of drawers `a bambocci', Genoese early 17th century

the rectangular top within a gadrooned border above three frieze drawers, the central one with two cherubs flanking a scrolled boss holding aloft a coronet above three long drawers each with two handles in the form of a bearded male mask with different head-dresses flanking a gilt-bronze escutcheon surmounted by an eagle, the stiles applied with carved figures, on grotesque feet

Originally from the collection of the Marquess of Sligo, Westport House, Co. Mayo, Ireland

In overall good condition.The back panels have been stained and are later. Evidence of old minor worm which appears no longer active. The feet are probably later perhaps 19th century. Old minor marks, cracks and scratches. The top has faded in parts which can easily be repolished. The gilt-bronze is a little dirty and would benefit from a light clean. There are some hairline cracks generally which are normal with age and use. There is a section on the top of the left side of the central drawer which is a later addition. Internal restorations. There is a vertical crack in the right side when facing the piece which can easily be filled. There is a possibility that some of the base panels have been replaced. There is a vertical crack in the side when falling.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Alvar González-Palacios, Il Mobile in Liguria, Genoa, 1996, see p. 47, fig. 48, p. 50, fig. 52,  for various similar examples of these chest of drawers `a bambocci'. Also see the same author, p. 51, fig. 53, for one with related bearded mask head-dresses, in the Ospedali Civili, Genoa.

C. Steiner, Mobili e Ambienti Italiani dal gotico al floreale, Vol I, Milan, 1963, fig. 186, illustrates a related commode with similar mask handles and identical escutcheons in Castello Sforzesco, Milan-reproduced here in fig. 1. The same author, op. cit, fig. 189, also illustrates another very similar commode with figures on the stiles `a bambocci'. A related model with bearded male mask handles is illustrated by Giuseppe Morazzoni, Il Mobile Genovese, Milan, plate 28.