Italian Marquetry Semainier Lingerie Chest Appraisal

Italian Marquetry Semainier Lingerie Chest

This is a vintage mid-20th century Italian Louis XV style semainier, or seven-drawer lingerie chest (though here configured as a five-drawer tall chest). The piece is heavily ornamented with intricate floral marquetry and parquetry on the top surface and the front face of each drawer. It is constructed from a variety of exotic wood veneers, featuring fruitwoods for the light-colored floral inlays set against a darker burl or walnut background. The chest features a tiered crown molding and stands on elegant, slender cabriole legs. Each drawer is outfitted with a central metallic ring pull, likely brass or bronze-toned alloy. The craftsmanship indicates a production style common in Sorrento or similar Italian woodworking regions. The finish shows a high-gloss lacquer that has aged, displaying some surface dullness and possible fine crazing. There appears to be minor wear along the edges of the veneer and slight darkening of the wood consistent with age. Notable are the cross-banded borders that frame the marquetry panels, demonstrating high-quality decorative joinery. No visible maker's marks are identifiable from the exterior, but the style is characteristic of mid-century Italian exports.