Nightstand - Walnut - Antique Fratino Nightstand





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Antique walnut solid wood nightstand in Renaissance style with a day-front, dating to 1860–1880 in Tuscany, Italy; dimensions 70 cm high, 62 cm wide, 46 cm deep; weight 13.8 kg.
Description from the seller
Antique 'Fratino' nightstand in solid walnut – Renaissance style – Italy, 19th century
A rare example of a tall nightstand made of pale walnut wood, typical of the Italian artisanal craftsmanship of the 19th century. Unlike classic closed-case bedside cabinets, this piece adopts an open-framework (a giorno) Renaissance-inspired structure, which makes it visually light yet extremely elegant.
Analysis of the Compartment and the Design:
Hinged Opening: The most interesting feature is the front panel. What appears to be a drawer is actually a flip-up door (visible in photos DSC_0110 and DSC_0111). Once opened, it reveals a spacious inner compartment, perfect for storing personal items.
Cartouche Decoration: The front is embellished with a raised plaque with beveled corners (cartouche silhouette), framing an elegant turned wooden knob.
Support Architecture: The upper body rests on four legs with complex turning, characterized by a succession of rings and bulbs (balustrade). The base is reinforced by a solid perimetral frame that rests on bun feet.
Condition:
The piece exudes authenticity. The walnut patina is warm and natural.
Interior: The bottom of the compartment is lined with period floral wallpaper, a touch of domestic care from times past.
Signs of Time: There are small beetle holes (treated and no longer active) and some losses or wear marks on the base and legs (seen in details DSC_0107 and DSC_0115), which do not affect stability but certify its age and originality.
Seller's Story
Antique 'Fratino' nightstand in solid walnut – Renaissance style – Italy, 19th century
A rare example of a tall nightstand made of pale walnut wood, typical of the Italian artisanal craftsmanship of the 19th century. Unlike classic closed-case bedside cabinets, this piece adopts an open-framework (a giorno) Renaissance-inspired structure, which makes it visually light yet extremely elegant.
Analysis of the Compartment and the Design:
Hinged Opening: The most interesting feature is the front panel. What appears to be a drawer is actually a flip-up door (visible in photos DSC_0110 and DSC_0111). Once opened, it reveals a spacious inner compartment, perfect for storing personal items.
Cartouche Decoration: The front is embellished with a raised plaque with beveled corners (cartouche silhouette), framing an elegant turned wooden knob.
Support Architecture: The upper body rests on four legs with complex turning, characterized by a succession of rings and bulbs (balustrade). The base is reinforced by a solid perimetral frame that rests on bun feet.
Condition:
The piece exudes authenticity. The walnut patina is warm and natural.
Interior: The bottom of the compartment is lined with period floral wallpaper, a touch of domestic care from times past.
Signs of Time: There are small beetle holes (treated and no longer active) and some losses or wear marks on the base and legs (seen in details DSC_0107 and DSC_0115), which do not affect stability but certify its age and originality.

