17th and 18th century cassapanca (European bench seat)

A cassapanca is a type of Italian storage bench or chest. The name "cassapanca" is derived from the Italian words "cassa" meaning "chest" and "panca" meaning "bench". It is typically made of wood and has a hinged lid that opens to reveal a storage compartment inside. The bench seat is usually upholstered and serves as a comfortable seating option. Cassapanca's have been used in Italy for centuries, traditionally in the living room, entrance hall or bedroom. It was a practical and functional piece of furniture, used to store bedding, clothes, and other household items. Cassapanca's can vary in style, from rustic and simple designs to more ornate, decorative pieces. They can be made from a variety of woods, such as pine, oak, or cedar, and can be finished in a variety of ways, from painted or stained to varnished or polished.