Antique Oak Plank Coffer 17th Century

Name: Early Oak Plank Coffer
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1236268
Price: 460 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s Note

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectCoffers & Chests
Period17th century
Style17th Century
MaterialOak, Iron
ColourWarm Brown
MotifsSix-plank construction, V-cut feet, Iron lockplate, Linear moulding
SizeH 45 cm (18 in) x W 95 cm (37 in) x D 35 cm (14 in)

This 17th century country-made English plank coffer uses a sturdy six-plank construction with handmade nail joinery and pin hinges. The timber displays a rich warm brown colour with a natural grain texture, showing a historic split across the side and front panels. Linear mouldings run horizontally along the front face, complemented by punch work design details on the top board. An iron lockplate, noted as an 18th century replacement, is mounted centrally on the front lid edge. The end panels extend downward to form distinctive V-cut feet that raise the body off the ground. The entire chest measures 45 cm high, 95 cm wide, and 35 cm deep. Practical storage for extra blankets, linens, or keepsakes makes this piece versatile for placement in an entryway, at the foot of a bed, or beneath a window in a living space. The rustic farmhouse aesthetic suits traditional interiors, country cottages, and period properties. Surface wear matches the extreme age of the timber, preserving an authentic historical character without modern restorations.

FAQs

A plank coffer, also known as a six-plank chest, is a historic form of wooden storage constructed from six solid timber boards fastened together with nails or pegs. Dating back to the medieval and early modern periods, these utilitarian pieces were used to store linens, valuables, and household textiles.

Early coffers were typically constructed from slow-grown European oak, chosen for its strength and grain density. The individual planks were joined using hand-forged iron nails or wooden trunnels, often featuring notched V-cut end boards that formed the supporting feet.

Authentic period oak coffers feature irregular hand-sawn timber, hand-forged iron lockplates, and signs of adze or hand-plane marks across the surfaces. Natural shrinkage around iron nails and original dark patination in recesses further indicate historical authenticity.

An antique oak coffer serves as a grounding focal point in an entryway, at the foot of a bed, or positioned as a central coffee table. Combining dark, structured oak with soft neutral textiles and modern lighting creates a balanced contrast in contemporary spaces.

Maintain historic oak by keeping it in a stable environment away from direct heat sources and excessive moisture. Regular dusting with a soft cloth and an occasional light application of beeswax polish will preserve the timber patination without disturbing the original surface finish.

The Ark Stores

Early Oak Plank Coffer