Neo-Medieval hand-carved walnut chest with Christian iconography, 19th century

Neo-Medieval style hand-carved walnut chest, datable to the 19th century, probably made in northern Italy, in the Veneto or Friuli area. The front is divided into three high-relief panels depicting figures of Christian inspiration. On the left is Saint Peter with the key, symbol of the foundation of the Church; in the center Saint Catherine of Alexandria, identifiable by the wheel of martyrdom, emblem of Christian wisdom; on the right an armed figure with a sword, interpretable as a military saint or Christian knight, allegory of the defense of the faith. The surface is richly hand-worked with interweaving motifs and medieval decorations, with clearly visible undercuts and still legible workmanship. Particularly striking is the inside of the lid, decorated with a painted panel with a biblical subject in three scenes: Baptism of Christ, Adam and Eve in Paradise, Crucifixion. Structure assembled with wrought iron hardware, with antique hinges and side handles. Capacious interior with side compartment. Good general patina with signs of aging consistent with its age. The lower base and legs were probably revisited at a later time. Measurements: width 155 cm, depth 50 cm, height 73.5 cm.