Fine Italian 18th century inlaid neoclassical three drawer chest. The early Italian 18th century bow front chest appears to have the original hardware. There are old repairs and veneer loss and evidence of old insect damage. The drawer slides have been rebuilt. Measures 35.2 inches high x 35.5 inches wide x 18.8 inches deep.
Estate of Cesare Barbieri. Barbieri, Cesare (1878-1956) born in Bologna Italy-emigrated to U.S. (1905). Inventor, mechanical engineer, and philanthropist; Worked as an early advisor, beginning in 1914, to the Vortex Co. in Chicago; continued as a consulting engineer to the Dixie-Vortex company after merger; designed first cone-shaped cup machinery and 1st double-wrapped, heavy-duty hot-drink and container cup machinery; Founder of Cesare Barbieri Endowment to promote American culture abroad, and to restore the University of Bologna, heavily damaged from World War II. Willed his considerable estate in trust for needy Dixie employees. He died on May 26, 1956 at age 78.