Settle (furniture) - Wood

Rare and particular Fratina bench / Italian convent bench in solid wood, characterized by an extremely slender structure and by an unusual tilting and reversible pierced backrest, designed to allow the use of the seat from both sides.

The backrest is articulated by two sturdy side wooden pins and consists of a long rectangular frame containing two perforated panels with geometric patterns of circles and lenticular shapes. The mechanism allows moving the backrest from one side to the other of the seat without moving the bench, a feature found in rare Italian historic benches intended also for conventual and ecclesiastical environments.

The seat, long and particularly narrow, consists of wide wooden boards and rests on four cylindrical legs that are slightly splayed. The construction preserves numerous elements of traditional workmanship, joinery and wooden dowels visible.

The piece shows a warm and intense patina, with color variations, marks, abrasions, small cracks, old interventions and irregularities compatible with age and long use. Such characteristics are documented in detail in the photographs and constitute part of the object's material history.

For type, construction technique and comparisons with analogous pieces, the bench is attributable to Italian production from the 19th century.

Dimensions:
Width: 188.5 cm
Depth: 34.5 cm
Overall height: 75 cm
Seat height: 43.5 cm

Material: solid wood, presumably walnut
Origin attributed: Italy
Epoch attributed: 19th century
Type: Fratina bench / convent bench
Characteristic: tilting and reversible perforated backrest
Conditions: good overall condition in relation to age, with patina, wear, cracks, old interventions and traces of use visible in the photographs.

The photographs are an integral part of the description and show accurately construction, patina and state of conservation.

Given the size of the bench and my work commitments, I do not ship; pickup is entirely at the buyer’s expense and responsibility.