Title

Vargueño

Anonimous

Generic classification

Object

Date

Century

Cultural context / style

Dimensions

Material

Iconography / Theme

Provenance

Current location

Inventory Number in Current Collection

Object history

According to the Saint Louis Art Museum, this bargueño originates from the province of Palencia. The decoration, consisting of geometric patterns and shell motifs, follows the typical design of a Salamanca-style bargueño. Therefore, it is likely that the piece originates from the Castile and León region. The exact circumstances of its departure from Spain are unknown, but such pieces were highly characteristic of the Spanish Golden Age (Aguiló Alonso, 1993). It is probable that, in the early twentieth century, it was sold abroad to expand the collection of a wealthy collector or a newly established museum (Merino de Cáceres and Martínez Ruiz, 2012). In 1928, it was acquired by the Saint Louis Art Museum, where it remains today.

Description

This bargueño reflects the typical model: a drop-down lid, divided drawers, and separation by pilasters and columns in an architectural arrangement. Such pieces were very popular in Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries. According to Aguiló Alonso (1993), its form and function trace back to the Hispano-Arabic chest. Additionally, the value of this piece is significant due to its condition and materials. The walnut wood, along with ivory and bone embellishments and iron and velvet applications, all contribute to its high quality.

Locations

• Early XVI^th c. - Early XX^th c.

  region

  Possible origin from Castile and Leon, Castilla y León (Spain)

• 1928 - present

  museum

  Saint Louis Art Museum, Misuri (United States)