Medieval iron bound tabernacle cupboard
14th century
Germany or France
W 43" × H 41" × D 20"
Stock # Marh2709
SOLD
Medieval iron bound tabernacle cupboard, the front with two heavy iron clad oak doors with hasps, joined to the thick and rough hewn body and back boards these clad with ironwork. Large traces of early polychrome throughout.
The juxtaposition of wood of various qualities indicates that the use is prior to the 15th century when the guilds strictly regulated the use of materials. This massive "small congnee" piece of furniture is a singular and moving witness to the emergence of a new type of piece of furniture - the wardrobe - and to the imperious need that there was from that time to put objects precious safe from looters. Bruno Perrier, France.