What is a 17th century brass coffer used for?

These pieces served as secure containers for transporting and storing high value items such as documents, currency, and textiles. Their robust construction and heavy locks protected contents from theft and environmental damage during travel or in domestic settings. Today, they function as striking focal points in period interiors while providing practical surface space and concealed storage. Collectors utilise them to house smaller collections or simply display them as sculptural examples of early joinery.

How do I identify a 17th century piece?

Authentic period pieces display traditional construction methods such as hand cut joinery, wrought iron hardware, and timber shrinkage consistent with age. Examination of the interior boards, tool marks, and fastener types helps confirm the period. Stylistic markers like Jacobean geometric mouldings, Charles II framing, and William and Mary veneers align the piece with documented historical design phases. Comparing the hardware style and wood species to known examples provides further verification.

How do I care for leather clad chests?

Leather surfaces require stable humidity and protection from direct heat sources to prevent the hide from drying and cracking. Gentle dusting with a dry, soft cloth maintains the surface without introducing moisture that could harm the underlying wood. Avoid modern chemical polishes or heavy oils unless advised by a specialist conservator. Allowing the natural patina to breathe preserves the historical integrity of the piece.

What woods were used in these coffers?

Oak forms the primary structural foundation for the majority of domestic British and European pieces from this era. Secondary woods like walnut, elm, and imported exotics such as kingwood and mahogany appear on high status cabinets and veneered furniture. The choice of timber often reflects the regional origin of the workshop, from local British woodlands to continental European and colonial trade centres.

Search 0

4,078 PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 0 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS

Sorted by

Per page

VISITOR LOGIN JOIN AS A SELLER DEALER LOGIN

Saved

GIFTS

17th Century Brass Coffer

LATEST STOCK

Visitor Login (saved items)

Sort Order

Items Per Page

17th Century Brass Coffer

19 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

A 17th century brass coffer is a robust storage piece combining timber foundations with heavy metal mounts, offering both security and period presence.

17th C. Studded Leather Bound Chest on Stand

17th century

Save

17th C. Studded Leather Bound Chest on Stand

From Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art

£1,550

3+ MONTHS AGO

chests

Antique English William and Mary Period Oak Chest C.1690

18th century

Save

Antique English William and Mary Period Oak Chest C.1690

From Minerva Antiques Ltd

£4,650

3+ MONTHS AGO

chest of drawers

17th century

Save

C17th Leather Box

From Martin Murray Antiques

£765

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

← 1 2 →

65,569

Antiques For Sale

Antiques Approved Today

2,413

Antique Uploads This Month

443,297

Total Antiques Sold

17th Century Brass Coffer

17th C. Studded Leather Bound Chest on Stand

Antique English William and Mary Period Oak Chest C.1690

C17th Leather Box

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories