Description
"The Figdor Commode " late 16th
early 17th Century . This genuine walnut chest of 3 drawers comes from the
well-documented collection of Dr. Albert Figdor. The well carved paw feet
supports a solid walnut chest with three ornate acanthus carved front walnut drawers. Walnut
was a luxury timber in Europe at this time until 18th century shipping made it possible to import
mahogany logs from the Americas.
The fine workmanship and excellent original condition retaining
its original Patina are all value points that Dr. Figdor built his famous
collection around. The lift top document space retains its original hand forged
hinges and lock. A working key is also supplied
Dr. Figdor was an influential
international banker based in Vienna during the turn of the 1900's. He
established a vast collection of early European antiques dating from the 15th
century up to the 18th century. His intention was to bequeath his collection to
the city of Vienna, in order to establish a core collection for the newly built
Vienna Applied Arts Museum. Although there appears some confusion as to why the
necessary paperwork was never processed, the collection was dispursed by three
public auction, plus addenda, in Berlin in 1930. Period catalogues of the time
are highly sought after reference material as they provide not only descriptions
but also photos of most items.
This chest still retains its original auction
warehouse house label. With such excellent provenance (another value point) the
rarity of any Figdor collection pieces reaching the market is impossibly scarce
and provides an excellent investment opportunity.
This commode was purchased was
purchased at the original auction of the collection in 1930, by an very
influential family residing in Canberra, Australia, and has been in their
possession until now.
We are very proud to be able to offer this fine piece of
400 year old history to the connoisseur.
Dimensions
H 101cm
W 128cm
D59 cm
Italy Circa
1590-1650
Price AUD $49,500
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