How did classical art influence Italian Renaissance furniture?
The Renaissance was a period of European history that lasted from about 1300 to 1600. A major characteristic of the period was a revival of interest in classical cultures - that is, the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. Classical art had a strong influence on furniture designed during the Renaissance. Italian artisans created the first important Renaissance furniture and their work attracted much attention in other European countries.
During the Renaissance, the palaces of Italian nobles became famous for their luxurious interiors, which included fine furniture and magnificent paintings. Actually, these palaces contained few pieces of furniture by today standards. The best-furnished room in a palace was the studio, a library in which the owner kept books, manuscripts, gems, medals, and small sculptures. These items rested on shelves in beautifully ornamented cupboards.
During the early 1500's, a large type of chest called a cassone was carved, gilded, and painted with scenes from classical history and mythology. A new form of chest called the cassapanca developed from the cassone. The cassapanca had a backrest and arms, and it was used as a sofa as well as a chest. Large cupboards called sideboards became popular pieces of Italian furniture. Artisans decorated them with columns and other features of classical architecture.