Summary:
• Item: Coffer / Chest
• Provenance: East Anglia, England, UK
• Period: Charles I
• Circa: 1640
• Wood: Solid oak
• Four inset panels to top and three to the front
• Reeded top frame & front stiles
• Carved arch panels to the front
• Joined panelled design
• Nulling carvings
• Arch and diamond carved panels
• Georgian iron strap hinges
• Original striking plate
• Original lid, sides, back & bottom
• Original length reeded feet (stiles)
• Original polish & patination
• Superb deep rich oxblood colour
• Free delivery to England, Wales & Southern Scotland*
• Free 14-day UK returns
Description:
Here is an early antique English Charles I oak joined coffer, believed to originate from the East Anglia region of the UK, from the mid 17th century period, circa 1640, in good condition, with fantastic patination and colour. The round-headed arch panels were a particularly favoured motif in East Anglia, which has been executed in deep relief on three front panels of this chest. This joined coffer is constructed with a panelled top, with a joined section below, which 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 inset panels and a moulded front edge. The lid features later (but very old) Georgian iron strap hinges. The interior is clean, dry and practical and usable. The interior retains its original candle box, lid and floorboards. The front and sides are decorated with original nulling carvings, below which are three inset panels surrounded by a reeded frame. The panels boast original arch and lozenge carvings. The sides of the coffer also feature plane panels. 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 retains its original rough-hewn panels along with the original floor. Overall, this coffer boasts a lovely rich deep oxblood colour and patination.
This is an early oak coffer having been around in the days of Charles I, 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 condition. Nominal old marks to the top and leading edges, 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 features later Georgian replacement iron strap hinges. The coffer retains its original lid, floor, candle lid and compartment, legs, sides and back. The lock is not present and there is consequently no key. The coffer stands on its original length stiles (feet), which is rare to see, although there is some wear to the feet, which has been caused by centuries of standing on stone floors. There is evidence of some historical woodworm to the feet and the backboards; however the coffer has been thoroughly treated. Please remember, this coffer is over 350 years old and you are unlikely to find a coffer of this age without some woodworm! 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 very good condition.
Dimensions:
Height = 69.2cm or 27¼” or 2ft 3¼”
Width (lid) = 133.5cm or 52½” or 4ft 4½”
Width (body) = 130cm or 51⅛” or 4ft 3⅛”
Depth (lid) = 57.5cm or 22⅝” or 1ft 10⅝”
Depth (body) = 54.1cm or 21¼” or 1ft 9¼”
Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.
Ref. Coffer 28
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