Italian Fruitwood Cabinet with Hand-Carved Zodiac Symbols, 1940s

A mid-century Italian cabinet from the 1940s, where surface and symbol are given equal weight.

Crafted in fruitwood and standing just under five feet tall, the entire façade is wrapped in finely reeded carving—grissinato—a technique that creates a continuous linear rhythm across the surface, catching light and shadow with subtle variation. This textural field is punctuated by a grid of hand-carved panels, each bearing a zodiac symbol, lending the piece a quiet sense of narrative and cosmology.

The carvings introduce moments of relief against the disciplined geometry of the cabinet, balancing ornament with restraint. Small, considered hardware sits almost discreetly within the composition, allowing the surface work to remain the focus.

Inside, the cabinet opens to a mirrored interior, fitted with glass shelving. The reflective backing amplifies light and depth, transforming the interior into a display environment—objects multiply, light shifts, and the cabinet takes on a second life beyond storage.

Rooted in the Italian mid-century tradition of elevating craftsmanship through repetition and detail, the cabinet functions as both storage and sculpture. A piece that holds presence without excess, its rhythm, symbolism, and material working together to shape the atmosphere of a room. Includes one key.

DIMENSIONS: 42"W x 17"D x 59.75"H

ORIGIN: Italy

PERIOD: 1940s

MATERIALS: Fruitwood,Glass,Mirror,Brass

CONDITION: This piece is in great vintage condition. The interior has been restored by our in-house team of restorationists, resulting in a well-presenting storage space. The exterior has been selectively touched up, with care taken to preserve the original character.

Minor surface wear is present throughout, including small nicks and light scuffs along edges and corners, consistent with age. The carved panels show natural variation and irregularities inherent to their making. The brass hardware retains a warm, aged patina.

Structurally sound, with both doors opening and closing as intended, and presents well overall. Includes one key.

This item is located in our Showroom.

To view items in our showroom, visit us Monday - Friday 10-6pm and Saturday 11-5pm. No appointment is needed. See more information on our Showroom location and hours here. Virtual viewings available.

Our Warehouse is located 10 minutes south of our showroom. To view this item, please schedule an appointment with us here. Virtual viewings available.

This item ships via White Glove Delivery.

White Glove Delivery

Our White Glove service includes delivery inside the home (including one flight of stairs).  Once the shippers are in your region, they will contact you beforehand to provide the delivery day and time window. Standard lead time is 3-5 weeks.

Ensure a clear path and be available to sign for the delivery.  The team cannot move existing furniture. Rural deliveries may experience longer wait times due to limited routing.  Alert us if there are additional stairs, COI requirements or other unique circumstances.

Domestic Shipping

In-stock inventory ships via UPS, USPS, or FedEx within 5-10 business days (excluding holidays). Rates are calculated based on the full order value, size and region.

International Shipping

International orders require a custom quote. Shipping costs are not included in the purchase price and will not populate at checkout. Please contact us directly for pricing.

View our shipping policies here.

Local Delivery and Pick Up (Chicago Area)

Local Delivery: If your delivery address is within a 20 mile radius of Chicago, 60642, Local Delivery charges will apply at checkout. 

Local Pickup: Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your pickup, so our team can have your purchase ready. 

Returns

All Sales are Final and Non-Returnable. If you have any additional questions prior to purchase; our dedicated team is available. Contact us here 

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Italian Fruitwood Cabinet with Hand-Carved Zodiac Symbols, 1940s

A mid-century Italian cabinet from the 1940s, where surface and symbol are given equal weight.

Crafted in fruitwood and standing just under five feet tall, the entire façade is wrapped in finely reeded carving—grissinato—a technique that creates a continuous linear rhythm across the surface, catching light and shadow with subtle variation. This textural field is punctuated by a grid of hand-carved panels, each bearing a zodiac symbol, lending the piece a quiet sense of narrative and cosmology.

The carvings introduce moments of relief against the disciplined geometry of the cabinet, balancing ornament with restraint. Small, considered hardware sits almost discreetly within the composition, allowing the surface work to remain the focus.

Inside, the cabinet opens to a mirrored interior, fitted with glass shelving. The reflective backing amplifies light and depth, transforming the interior into a display environment—objects multiply, light shifts, and the cabinet takes on a second life beyond storage.

Rooted in the Italian mid-century tradition of elevating craftsmanship through repetition and detail, the cabinet functions as both storage and sculpture. A piece that holds presence without excess, its rhythm, symbolism, and material working together to shape the atmosphere of a room. Includes one key.

Dimensions
Width: 42"
Depth: 17"
Height: 59.75"
Origin: Italy
Period: 1940s
Materials: Fruitwood,Glass,Mirror,Brass
Condition
This piece is in great vintage condition. The interior has been restored by our in-house team of restorationists, resulting in a well-presenting storage space. The exterior has been selectively touched up, with care taken to preserve the original character. Minor surface wear is present throughout, including small nicks and light scuffs along edges and corners, consistent with age. The carved panels show natural variation and irregularities inherent to their making. The brass hardware retains a warm, aged patina. Structurally sound, with both doors opening and closing as intended, and presents well overall. Includes one key.

685 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642 | southlooploft.com | (312) 291-8479

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