Historicist bargueño; c. 1900.

Historicist bargueño; c. 1900.
Walnut wood and gilded bronze.
Presents bridge foot.
The lid is missing.
Measurements: 125 x 82 x 35 cm.
This bargueño, dated approximately 1900, is a refined example of a type of furniture that has its roots in Spain and was widely developed during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The bargueño, which combines functionality with rich ornamentation, was used as a portable desk and a symbol of social status.
In the observed piece, the structure is composed of a rectangular body elevated on a base with turned legs, of robust and elegant design. The main body features a series of drawers and doors decorated with intricate gilded bronze reliefs depicting floral motifs and stylized figures, highlighting its ornamental character and connection to the artistic traditions of the period. The symmetry and arrangement of the compartments not only add visual balance, but also demonstrate the attention to detail characteristic of the cabinetmakers who created this furniture. The interior, in many cases, was used to store documents, jewelry and other valuables, reinforcing the idea of security and functionality of the design.
The base, with turned legs and additional bronze decorations, adds stability and elevates the furniture, giving it a prominent presence in any room. This structural element also shows the influence of the Spanish Renaissance, with details that evoke the solidity and refinement characteristic of the period.