Original Retro has dated this 16th Century Silver Alms Box to the 16th Century.
This is a very rare piece of early silver of the late medieval early 16th century.
The alms box has an octagonal and fluted shape and is slightly conical.
Each scene is surrounded by a floral design.
Strangely, the scene of the lady on the back of the Alms box is purposely defaced (see photo's) I'm
presume that the figures on the Alms box are members of one family and that this person in question has been ousted by them.
The coin mouth is horizontally placed on top of the box with a lock clasp to the front.
The edge of the lid is decorated with a pearl decoration.
Inside the alms box are the leather lips still intact and supple.
The silver Alms box is probably made in the Lower Countries looking at the design and the Alms box
has no silver Guild marks (which is not unusual for that period).
The box stood most probably in a private chapel at the time.
The weight of the Alms box is 41.7 gram
Height: approx. 8.5 cm
Diameter at the top is: approx. 4.5 cm
Diameter at the base is: approx. 6 cm
Original Retro has dated this 16th Century Silver Alms Box to the 16th Century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Original Retro Profile Page
Very Rare 16th Century Silver Lower Countries Alms Box C.1550
