19th Century Renaissance Revival Hand-Carved Hall Bench in Stripped Oak

19th Century Renaissance Revival Hand-Carved Hall Bench in Stripped Oak is a marvelous example of the evolution of the humble bench that transpired in Europe over the centuries.  In days of old, one could not announce one's intent to visit as there were no phones or email or social media.  Short of sending over an expensive courier, one simply showed up, and was obliged to wait in the foyer or entry room until the host or hostess was able to come up to greet you.  At some point an ingenious person decided to incorporate a trunk into the seat so it could perform two functions including storage, and voila, the genre was born!  This example was rendered from solid old-growth oak, and features carved detail intaglio style and in bas relief on all visible surfaces.  From the foliate bordering to the bold gryffins flanking the heraldic crest, to the shell and cornucopia below, it is visually stunning from any angle!  Seat lifts up to provide surprising storage.  Note the hand-chamfered panels as seen on the shot of the back, yet another sign of hand-crafted quality, ensuring this will become a family keepsake you'll cherish for generations to come!
Circa 1880s
Measures 36.5H x 42W x 18D; seat 18H