Here is a good quality antique English George III elm six-plank coffer, circa 1760, in excellent original condition.
Summary
• Item Coffer
• Period George III
• Circa 1760
• Wood Solid elm
• Provenance England, UK
• Six plank design
• Nailed plank construction
• Elegant shaped ends
• Originating from a country property
• Primitive design (pre-cursor to the chest of drawers)
• Working lock & key
• Oval brass escutcheon
• Original top, sides, back & bottom
• Original length styles (feet)
• Original polish & patination
• Superb rich mellow colour
• Good original condition
• Free 14 day returns policy
Description
Here is a good quality antique English George III elm six-plank coffer, circa 1760, in excellent original condition, with sought after small proportions and a lovely mellow elm grain configuration. The coffer is constructed using six planks, with butt joints to the corners and a simple half round moulded top, held together by handmade iron nails. The coffer stands on elegant shaped styles (feet) with primitively shaped brackets to the front. The single piece top retains the original strap hinges, which are in excellent condition. The coffer features its original metal lock and simple oval brass escutcheon. There is a working key. Inside, the coffer retains its original pine lined candle box (with hinged lid) to the left hand side, which amazingly retains its original miniature working lock and key. The interior is clean and dry. The back of the coffer features the original polished back with original floor.
This style of primitive coffer was constructed all over England from the 16th century onwards and was the precursor to the chest of drawers. They were found in most simple country dwellings to store all manner of valuable possessions from weapons, clothing, and blankets to utensils. 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 at the foot of a bed as an ottoman.
The coffer boasts a rich mellow elm colour. As it boasts the original 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
This coffer is in excellent original condition. Nominal old use marks to the leading edges but nothing significant considering the age of the item. The coffer retains its original iron hinges, candle box and locks. There are also working keys to both locks. The coffer still retains its original candle box (with original lock and working key) to the left hand side. There are no splits to the tops sides or bottom of the coffer. The interior is clean, dry and the coffer is practical and useable. The coffer is solid in joint and ready to use. Considering the age of this very early coffer, it is in excellent condition and does not detract from its attractive appeal.
Dimensions
Height = 50.4cm or 19⅞” or 1ft 7⅞”
Width = 109.8cm or 43¼” or 3ft 7¼”
Depth = 37.4cm or 14¼” or 1ft 2¼”