Desk Unit

This exquisite item of furniture is a sort of all-in-one office, because it can serve as a cabinet, a desk and a little bookcase when it is opened. It was made by Giuseppe Maria Bonzanigo, a member of a leading family of carvers and organ builders from Lombardy or Ticino who moved to Piedmont in the 18^th century. Bonzanigo trained under the cabinet maker Pietro Piffetti, who was also probably a member of his family. Bonzanigo joined the Confraternity of Saint Luke in 1772 and worked for the House of Savoy from the following year until the early 19^th century. This magnificent item of furniture features white and sky blue depictions of Renaissance-influenced grotesques and candelabra. Above, there are four vases and two crossing trumpets, which is a symbol of fame.