Webberley Antiques has dated this piece to the Before 1700 period.
All the original timbers are retained here including the original twin boarded top with channel carved and thumb moulded border and the original oak boards to the base which are nailed up with iron hand forged nails.
The front of the chest has scratch carved geometric decoration above three bands of deep confident carving, the lowest band has running S scrolls centred by flowers and the upper two band are foliate arcades of running strapwork each centred by a small heart. The box corners flanking the front panel are deeply notched.
Below the iron hasp are the engraved initials M A above a beautifully carved and etched heart. .
These appear to be early late 17th or early 18th century additions.
The chest is boarded with thickly cut wainscot oak. No worm or significant repairs, lots of wear and nibbles to the edges of the bottom board but no significant damage, knocks or marks and the chest is heavy, solid and completely usable.
A really beautiful small and early oak chest, perhaps as a sewing or work box, heavy and robust, made by skilled hands in c. 1660 and clearly made as a token of love for ‘M A’.
I am always intrigued by these early named pieces and the stories they could tell.
In beautiful entirely usable condition and with superb patination from centuries of handling, wax and care. If someone would love the most beautiful ‘memory box’ for their dearest possessions, this is undoubtedly it!
Dimensions are:
26 inches wide, 17 inches deep, 10.5 inches high when closed, 25.5 inches high when lid is open. Internal (usable) height is 10.5 inches.
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
Wonderful 17th Century Oak Chest Made with Love c. 1660
