A Rare 16th Century Nonsuch chest in remarkably original condition.The chest is of dovetail construction using highly figured oak all cleanly planed except for the underneath which has been left showing the original riving of the timber. The top is battoned on the sides and front allowing the lid to fit over the chest itself. The top and ends are panelled out with a squared dark and light wood inlay enclosed in light stringing. The carrying handles are original except for one back plate and two fixing snipes. The front is completely covered in parquetry using predominately light and dark woods. There are two inlaid pediments, below which are inlaid arched panels supported by columns and moulded capitals, all enclosed with a bead and spindle inlay. The centre panels are inlaid with towers depicting the central tower of the nonsuch palace, the whole enclosed with elaborate borders of checker work. The base of the chest is finished with a bead and O G shaped Oak mold. A plinth has bee...