17th Inlaid Cabinet From Augsburg “Wild Grass”

A rare and valuable collector’s coin cabinet, richly inlaid with precious woods, made in Augsburg, second half of the 17th century.

The coin cabinet opens with a drop-down front panel that reveals drawers of various sizes arranged in three tiers and a central door. The rich inlay decoration features various types of wood, one of which is stained green, creating a contrast between light and dark colors: the decoration includes architectural elements, geometric motifs, volutes, foliage, birds, ruins, and plant ornaments.

Cabinetmakers drew inspiration from Lorenz Stoer’s book *Geometria et perspectiva*, published in 1567. When the flap is closed, the front panel displays a design featuring birds and foliage in various colors. The acid-etched iron lock, typical of southern Germany, further enhances the piece.

Coin cabinets inlaid with colored local woods are typical of the regions of Augsburg, Tyrol, and Innsbruck and continue to fascinate art lovers. Originally designed for wealthy collectors to adorn cabinets of curiosities (private museums), they were used to store and display works of art (medals, coins, statuettes, corals, and shells). Various names refer to their distinctive decoration—whether “wild grass,” “ruins,” or “views of Jerusalem” (certain patterns evoking palm trees)—and there are also hunting or allegorical versions.

Excellent condition, with minor signs of age.

Dimensions H 32 cm L 26 cm D 21 cm