11
A Cuban Mahogany Sacristy Chest (Cómoda de Sacristía), Circa 1765-70
1/5
Description
With later handles and support brackets
height 44 ½ in.; width 75 in.; depth 35 ½ in.
113 cm.; 191.5 cm.; 90.2 cm.
LiteratureFor further illustrations and a discussion of Cuban sacristy commodes, see Michael Connors, "Cuban Elegance", Harry N. Abrams, Inc., New York, 2004, pp. 69, 76-7, 82-88Catalogue noteLarge chests of drawers to hold liturgical vestments and objects were often constructed as part of the wall fittings in sacristies in 18th-century Cuba in a Spanish baroque style, and this spurred a fashion for private individuals to commission free-standing commodes in a similar style for their own residences.
The use of dense mahogany and cedar in the construction of the present chest, in conjunction with shaped corners and flared feet with disctinctly baroque scrollwork, relate to Cuban sacristy commodes of the 18th century. While such commodes were strongly influenced by European Baroque stylistic trends, the present lot also betrays the more restrained linearity of English furniture of the period, suggesting a date after the British occupation of Cuba in 1762.
Almost identical examples of Cuban sacristy commodes are in the Denver Art Museum (accession number 2019.64), Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Museo de la Ciudad, Havana, and the Casa de Diego Velázquez, Santiago de Cuba.
height 44 ½ in.; width 75 in.; depth 35 ½ in.
113 cm.; 191.5 cm.; 90.2 cm.
LiteratureFor further illustrations and a discussion of Cuban sacristy commodes, see Michael Connors, "Cuban Elegance", Harry N. Abrams, Inc., New York, 2004, pp. 69, 76-7, 82-88Catalogue noteLarge chests of drawers to hold liturgical vestments and objects were often constructed as part of the wall fittings in sacristies in 18th-century Cuba in a Spanish baroque style, and this spurred a fashion for private individuals to commission free-standing commodes in a similar style for their own residences.
The use of dense mahogany and cedar in the construction of the present chest, in conjunction with shaped corners and flared feet with disctinctly baroque scrollwork, relate to Cuban sacristy commodes of the 18th century. While such commodes were strongly influenced by European Baroque stylistic trends, the present lot also betrays the more restrained linearity of English furniture of the period, suggesting a date after the British occupation of Cuba in 1762.
Almost identical examples of Cuban sacristy commodes are in the Denver Art Museum (accession number 2019.64), Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Museo de la Ciudad, Havana, and the Casa de Diego Velázquez, Santiago de Cuba.
Auction Details
Shipping
T&Cs & Important Info
Ask seller a question
With later handles and support brackets
height 44 ½ in.; width 75 in.; depth 35 ½ in.
113 cm.; 191.5 cm.; 90.2 cm.
LiteratureFor further illustrations and a discussion of Cuban sacristy commodes, see Michael Connors, "Cuban Elegance", Harry N. Abrams, Inc., New York, 2004, pp. 69, 76-7, 82-88Catalogue noteLarge chests of drawers to hold liturgical vestments and objects were often constructed as part of the wall fittings in sacristies in 18th-century Cuba in a Spanish baroque style, and this spurred a fashion for private individuals to commission free-standing commodes in a similar style for their own residences.
The use of dense mahogany and cedar in the construction of the present chest, in conjunction with shaped corners and flared feet with disctinctly baroque scrollwork, relate to Cuban sacristy commodes of the 18th century. While such commodes were strongly influenced by European Baroque stylistic trends, the present lot also betrays the more restrained linearity of English furniture of the period, suggesting a date after the British occupation of Cuba in 1762.
Almost identical examples of Cuban sacristy commodes are in the Denver Art Museum (accession number 2019.64), Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Museo de la Ciudad, Havana, and the Casa de Diego Velázquez, Santiago de Cuba.
height 44 ½ in.; width 75 in.; depth 35 ½ in.
113 cm.; 191.5 cm.; 90.2 cm.
LiteratureFor further illustrations and a discussion of Cuban sacristy commodes, see Michael Connors, "Cuban Elegance", Harry N. Abrams, Inc., New York, 2004, pp. 69, 76-7, 82-88Catalogue noteLarge chests of drawers to hold liturgical vestments and objects were often constructed as part of the wall fittings in sacristies in 18th-century Cuba in a Spanish baroque style, and this spurred a fashion for private individuals to commission free-standing commodes in a similar style for their own residences.
The use of dense mahogany and cedar in the construction of the present chest, in conjunction with shaped corners and flared feet with disctinctly baroque scrollwork, relate to Cuban sacristy commodes of the 18th century. While such commodes were strongly influenced by European Baroque stylistic trends, the present lot also betrays the more restrained linearity of English furniture of the period, suggesting a date after the British occupation of Cuba in 1762.
Almost identical examples of Cuban sacristy commodes are in the Denver Art Museum (accession number 2019.64), Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Museo de la Ciudad, Havana, and the Casa de Diego Velázquez, Santiago de Cuba.
Classic Design: Furniture, Silver & Ceramics
Sale Date(s)
Venue Address
1334 York Avenue
New York
New York
10021
United States
General delivery information available from the auctioneer
Sotheby’s Post Sale Service teams can arrange expert delivery and convenient shipping of your property. We offer exceptional service and competitive rates whether shipping a diamond bracelet or a large piece of furniture. Fully knowledgeable on all international regulations, Sotheby's will compile a full range of services for you, including collection, packing and arranging for shipping and transit insurance worldwide. For sales in London and New York, simply provide us with your delivery address when you register for a sale. Following your purchase, we will send you a competitive and comprehensive shipping quote. For property purchased in all other salerooms, contact that office directly to arrange for the transport of your purchases.
To learn more, or if we may be of assistance contact us.
Important Information
https://www.sothebys.com/en/docs/pdf/new-york-cob-for-buyers-12-14-2023.pdf?locale=en
Terms & Conditions
https://www.sothebys.com/en/docs/pdf/new-york-cob-for-buyers-12-14-2023.pdf?locale=en
