FEATURES ARCHIVE

There’s something exhilarating about an object preserved for over 500 years. This extremely rare example of late Gothic furniture from south Germany is no exception. Dating to the third quarter of the 15th century it is in the manner of Juorg Syrlin the Elder, circa 1465-1480. Imposing and architectural, and yet intricately decorated, it falls into a group of furniture from south Tyrol and Ulm that pushed the boundaries between the arts of cabinet making and sculpture, representing a new departure in Gothic style from the region.

Instantly striking is the profusion of naturalistic motifs in the decorative scheme; a multitude of tendrils, scrolling foliage, thistles, branches, grapes and acorns abound. Only occasionally is this naturalistic theme interrupted by Gothic tracery panels or roundels.

Cabinets such as this might be found in both an ecclesiastical and secular setting, although no matter their setting they were undoubtedly meant as an imposing centrepiece, stressing the wealth and importance of its owner. Walk around the sides and you will notice another intriguing feature: these cabinets were constructed from two chests stacked one upon the other, each with its carrying handles on its sides. In spite of its large dimensions the cabinet and its most often precious contents could easily be carried away in case of fire or other emergency.