This elegant aparador (or wardrobe) was a feature of the many imposing bahay na bato mansions in the old towns of Laguna. It is, however, even more exceptional because of the elaborate ornate carvings that decorate the doors, frieze and crest of the piece that symbolize the owner’s prosperity and elevated station in life. Console feet carved with acanthus scrolls jut out from the chamfered corners and are joined by an apron carved with a meandering foliate design decorated with a rosette in the center. The base of the cabinet supports a pair of drawers, each with a pair of round pulls. Each drawer is furthermore carved with elaborate garlands of flowers that echo the patterns of the crest. The door panels are carved with gracefully proportioned oval reserves; with the outer portions carved with entwined vines of grapes and leaves, symbols of plenty. The beveled cornice above the doors is appliquéd end to end with a richly carved frieze featuring wreaths of acanthus leaves and other flora. Carvings of vines flank each side. The crest is surmounted by symmetrical pierced, foliate scrolls flank the crown and become smaller as they flow gracefully around the frontispiece. Painstakingly carved vertical fluting and grooves that outline the doors and corners are testaments to the hours of artistic workmanship to create this imposing wardrobe. The piece was created from narra (Pterocarpus indicus) heartwood in a stately reddish-brown color. -From the archives of Martin I. Tinio, Jr.
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Provenance: Provenance: From a distinguished family of Sta. Rosa, Laguna