Summary:
• Item: Coffer / Chest
• Provenance Home Counties, England, UK
• Period: Charles II
• Circa: 1680
• Wood: Solid oak
• Original condition
• Original striking plate
• Lock not present
• Three inset panels to top and front
• Reeded top frame & front stiles
• Joined panelled design
• Lunette carvings
• Original iron loop hinges (rare to see)
• Original lid, sides, back & bottom
• Original length reeded feet (stiles)
• Original polish & patination
• Superb deep rich oxblood colour
• Evidence of historical wood worm (treated)
• Free delivery to England, Wales & Southern Scotland*
• Free 14-day UK returns
Here is an early antique English Charles II Home Counties oak joined coffer, from the late 17th century period, circa 1680, in original condition, with good patination and colour. This joined coffer constructed with a two plank top, with a joined section below, is constructed with butt joints to the corners, held together by handmade iron nails and peg construction. The lid, which features a nice over-hang, is decorated with primitive chip edge carving to the sides and a moulded front edge. The lid retains its original iron loop hinges, which is unusual to see, as these are normally damaged or have been replaced with lather strap hinges. The interior is clean, dry and is practical and usable. The front is decorated with original lunette carvings, with three inset panels around a reeded frame. The sides of the coffer also feature panelled sides. This beautiful item retains its original striking plate and clasp, although the lock is not present. The coffer stands on its original length stiles (feet); it is rare to see feet, which have not been reduced in height (as this was the main point of contact with damp floors). The back of the coffer features the original rough-hewn panels along with the original floor. There is evidence of historical woodworm to the back frame and underside of the coffer, along with the sides of the lid. However, the coffer has been thoroughly treated. Please remember, this item is over 300 years old! Overall, this coffer boasts a lovely rich deep oxblood colour and patination.
This coffer was purchased from a country property in Berkshire, the “Home Counties” where it had been in the family for several generations. This leads us to believe it is possible that it originally came from this area.
This is an early oak coffer having been around in the days of Charles II, Cromwell’s conquest of Ireland & Scotland and the Great Fire of London. This style of coffer was constructed all over England from the 16th century onwards and was the precursor to the chest of drawers. They were also used as benches. Local carpenters, rather than cabinetmakers made them for ubiquitous use in their local area.
This item would look great in a variety of rooms from the hallway, to the living room or bedroom, as an ottoman at the foot of the bed.
This beautiful piece boasts a rich dark oxblood red and brown colour. As it boasts the original wax polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination; this can only be achieved through age and years of care and cleaning it has received.
Condition Report:
The coffer is in good original condition. Nominal old marks to the top, edges, sides and front of the lid but nothing significant considering the age of the item. Such old use marks are inevitable and perfectly acceptable due to its age and use it would have received. The interior is clean, dry, and usable. The lid retains its original iron loop hinges, which is unusual to see, as these are normally damaged or have been replaced with lather strap hinges. The coffee also retains its original floor, lid, sides and back. The coffer stands on its original length stiles (feet), which is rare to see. The lock is not present and there is consequently no key. There is evidence of historical woodworm to the back frame and underside of the coffer, along with the sides of the lid. However, the coffer has been thoroughly treated. Please remember, this coffer is over 300 years old! The coffer is solid in joint, it does not wobble on the floor and is ready to use. Considering the age of this coffer, it is in good original condition and does not detract from its attractive appeal.
Dimensions:
Height = 66.9cm or 26⅜” or 2ft 2⅜”
Width (lid) = 133.5cm or 52½” or 4ft 4½”
Width (body) = 127.3cm or 50⅛” or 4ft 2⅛”
Depth (lid) = 59.6cm or 23½” or 1ft 11½”
Depth (body) = 57.1cm or 22½” or 1ft 10½”
Terms & Conditions:
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Ref. Coffer 27
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