France, 16th century. This chest is said to have graced the chateau of Henry II and Diana de Poitiers during their liaison in Dordogne, France. The exceptional hand-carved walnut cabinet bears four panels, two of which reveal initials "H" and "D" and the others depicting bows and arrows, and an arrow sheath. Perhaps an ode to cupid, as the two had remained in an ongoing romance until Henry's death in 1559. The black and white photo depicts the chest "as it appeared in the chateau."

As patrons of the arts, especially Poitiers' love of French Renaissance architecture, the pair is said to have traveled throughout Italy and France to acquire the best architects to build monumental structures and chateaus.

Overall good condition; partial restoration, although most of the wood appears original on the front. Back panels have been replaced and stained to match. Damage from wood worms throughout the facade. Spectacular original cast iron hardware; some nails replaced. Front left foot softened by water damage. Both keys fit, but the bottom does not turn completely.


Provenance:
Purchased in Montecito, California in the mid-20th century and restored by the shop of Harry W. Biggins, Santa Barbara, CA. Mr. Biggins states this piece came from Chateau de Neuvic in Dordogne, France (built 1520). He asserts it was custom made for Henry II of France (1519-1559), as the king was so impressed by the furniture makers in Italy at the time and commissioned many artisans to construct fine pieces in France. Throughout his reign, Henry II remained close with his mistress Diane de Poitiers and it's claimed they had many rendezvous at Chateau de Neuvic. Looking closely at the chest's carvings, the two upper panels bear carvings of initials "H" and "D", as well as crescents. The latter is said to represent the Goddess Diana, after which Diane de Poitiers was named. Two lower panels depict finely carved bows and arrows, as well as an arrow sheath. Later, the chest was owned by Henry IV where he kept it in his headquarters during the Wars of Religion. It's stated that this chateau and its contents were purchased in the early 20th century by Philip H. Chadburne. Finally, the chest was re-sold and brought to the united states due to partial damage from fire, where Biggins restored it as faithfully as possible.