Webberley Antiques has dated this piece to the Before 1700 period.
With punched open flowerhead decoration to the flanks and thumb moulded border to the lid.

The iron hasp engranved with the initials S M
On the inner face of the box, covering the old lock, are some squares of newspaper advertising various steam liners cruising Liverpool to New York, Boston, The Asia, and Jamaica. Also mention of Samuel and Edward Cunard along with various steam ship names and captains which indicate that the newspapers date from 1830s/1840s.

The iron hinges are very old and have old rivets. These have been on the box for most of its life – possibly the originals repaired and refitted or these may be late 17th century replacements.
Lovely slender wainscot oak boards, all original. Single oak board to base which oversails the principal boards and has a curved border. There is no evidence of this box ever having feet or having had any alterations. No worm or repairs, some nibbles to the edges of the bottom board but no significant damage, knocks or marks.

A really beautiful small chest, heavy and robust, made by a skilled hand around 400 years ago.
In beautiful usable condition and with superb patination from centuries of handling, wax and care.
Dimensions are:
19.5 inches wide, 13.5 inches deep, 11.5 inches high.
For metric please multiply by 2.5
Webberley Antiques has dated this piece to the Before 1700 period.
Specialists in 18th century and earlier furniture for more than 45 years
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Webberley Antiques Profile Page