Table Cabinet of Archduke Ferdinand II
Numerous works of art, natural objects, and curiosities were originally stored in the drawers of this table cabinet. The program of the silver decoration, with representations of the elements, continents, and celestial gods, likewise alludes to the microcosm of a “miniature Kunstkammer.” The labours of Hercules and the allegories of virtue refer to Ferdinand and his second wife, Anna Caterina Gonzaga, whom he married in 1582.
Numerous works of art, natural objects, and curiosities were originally stored in the drawers of this table cabinet. The program of the silver decoration, with representations of the elements, continents, and celestial gods, likewise alludes to the microcosm of a “miniature Kunstkammer.” The labours of Hercules and the allegories of virtue refer to Ferdinand and his second wife, Anna Caterina Gonzaga, whom he married in 1582.
Reference/Person:
Ferdinand II. (1564-1595), Erzherzog von Österreich und Landesherr von Tirol (1529 - 1595) DNB
Time:
ca. 1582
Object Name
furniture; cabinet
Culture
Southern German or Mantua (?)
Material/technology:
Ebony, maple, nutwood, silver
Dimensions:
H. 75 cm, B. 62 cm, T. 45 cm
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Kunstkammer
Invs.
Kunstkammer, 883