Polychrome pine Tyrolean chest with geometric panels – Tyrol, dated 1906

Tyrolean chest in polychrome pine with geometric panels in cream, red, and black on a dark background, dated 1906. A popular piece that sits between a linen chest and an entryway bench with storage, representative of early 20th-century Alpine folk art in its most domestic interpretation. In traditional Alpine homes, the low chest was used at the foot of the bed or near the entrance to store blankets, bedding, and household utensils. The geometric polychromy—different from the floral patterns of wedding chests—corresponds to a second generation of chests, already into the 20th century, where the repertoire simplifies and becomes more rhythmic. The date engraved on the front, 1906, anchors the piece to a very specific moment in the craft. It is constructed from tongue-and-groove pine boards reinforced with internal cross braces. The flat lid opens on wrought iron hinges and retains its central lock plate. The front is organised into polychrome panels with geometric patterns—rosettes, lines, rectangular cartouches—combining cream, red, and black on a brown-green background. The feet, on a simple straight base, are painted to match the panels. Details. Dimensions: Width: 119 cm Depth: 55 cm Height: 46 cm. Style: Alpine folk art, Tyrolean tradition. Materials and techniques: Solid pine; tongue-and-groove assembly; original tempera polychromy with geometric patterns; original wrought iron fittings and lock. Place of origin: Central Europe (Tyrolean tradition) Period: Early 20th century. Date of manufacture: Year 1906 (date inscribed on the piece) Condition / Observations: Good. Original patina and paint with minimal wear on the lid. This piece is part of the Amaru Antiques collection, Barcelona. UNIQUE PIECE.