Cabinet

This piece of furniture is important for the history of Spanish cabinet making, as it is a rare and early example of the use of the marquetry technique of 'part' and 'counterpart'. This piece is unusual as the decorative technique of part and counterpart marquetry was not often used in Spain. Because most of the ornamentation is on the interior, Catalan cabinets such as this were intended to be displayed with the doors open, like the brides' chests with similar origins. Both items of furniture were usually bought for weddings in wealthy families, and were placed in the bedroom or communal areas. This piece of furniture has many secrets: the cornice opens up to a large cavity and all the elements on the front are actually drawers. On the side of one drawer there is a receipt in Catalan with the money that was kept in the drawer at one time.