19th Century Italian Renaissance Hall Bench in Walnut

19th Century Italian Renaissance Hall Bench in Walnut is a truly magical expression of the sculptor's art!  The boldly arched crown is lavished with scrollwork and foliates, and overlooks the seat back lavished with gryffins, an heraldic crest and foliate rosettes.  Mythical beasts also appear on the armrests flanking the seat back carving, mounted to the seat with lions' paws.  Even the lift-up seat is carved intaglio style with a stylized foliate flourish.  A proud Norseman appears on the base below in full relief, with a resplendent crown and wings, flanked by amazing scrollwork.  Serving as a short waiting bench in the entryway, the trunk adaptation also provided a modicum of storage.  Perfect for just outside or inside the office, as well!
Circa 1860s
Measures 48H x 45W x 17.5D; seat 19H