PROBABLY FLEMISH, EARLY 16TH CENTURY, THE LINNENFOLD BACK AND THE BASE LATER

Details

An iron-mounted oak credence
Probably Flemish, early 16th Century, the linnenfold back and the base later
The moulded rectangular top above two doors each carved in relief with a courtly female figure kneeling beneath a lambrequined canopy held aloft by dragons, and flanked by two male masks carved in profile, mounted with pierced foliate hinges and lock plates, divided by a carved relief panel depicting a female saint standing in a fountain, all flanked and divided by crocketed pilasters, on canted uprights and with a linnenfold backplate, joined by a later undertier with a shaped apron, restorations, the crocketed pilasters probably associated
147cm. high x 114cm. wide x 49cm. deep

Special notice

Christie's charge a buyer's premium of 20.825% of the hammer price for lots with values up to NLG 200,000. If the hammer price exceeds the NLG 200,000 then the premium is calculated at 20.825% of the first NLG 200,000 plus 11.9% of any amount in excess of NLG 200,000.

Lot Essay

The credence (Italian Credenza), was a piece of furniture that reflected the wealth and influence of its owner. It was used to house precious silver items to be used on the table, such as ewers, chalices and salvers. These items would be placed on top of the credence before they were served at the table.
The credence is the result of the marriage between the hanging cupboard and the chest on short legs. It originated in Flanders in the late 15th century. From there this type of furniture spread to France, England and the Netherlands. It was the earliest piece of storage furniture not designed to be constantly moved, and is the precursor of the cupboard and cabinet.
The present lot is richly carved and has finely pierced metal mounts. The fountain carved in the central panel possibly represents the fountain of youth. A fountain may also symbolize the source of spiritual life and salvation.

See illustration

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