Corner Cabinet, 1873 (rosewood, painted panels, brass)

The form of this corner cabinet reflects the simplicity and elegance of Chinese design, a source of inspiration, together with Japanese art, to many artists in the Aesthetic Movement. Depicted in the Pre-Raphaelite style in the central panel is Lucretia, a Roman matron whose suicide after being violated by the son of the king of Rome caused an uprising that resulted in Rome becoming a republic. Lucretia's virtues are inscribed in the halos of the two figures on side panels: CASTITAS (chastity) and FORTITUDO (courage). Manufacturer Collinson and Lock Overall: 74 7/8 × 31 1/8 × 25 1/8 inches (190.2 × 79.1 × 63.8 cm) Overall (cabinet): 39 1/4 × 31 1/8 × 25 1/8 inches (99.7 × 79.1 × 63.8 cm) Overall (base): 35 5/8 × 31 1/8 × 22 inches (90.5 × 79.1 × 55.9 cm)