During the reign of Francois I of France ( 1515 -1547), fine examples of Renaissance architecture and furnishings were in abundance.  Many of the artists commissioned by the king were Italian, and they drew inspiration from antiquity.  Walnut replaced oak as the favored wood for furniture, as its tight grain lends well to relief carving.  This cabinet also includes images of the salamander,  believed to live in fire and extinguish it with its cold body. This became a symbol for Francis I, representing his virtue, strength, and ability to both "nourish the good fire" (uphold justice and knowledge) and "extinguish the bad" (fight sin and injustice).