17th Century Carved Oak Coffer with Panelled Front

17th Century Carved Oak Coffer with Panelled Front.A handsome 17th century oak coffer with a richly carved two panel front and a wonderfully timeworn surface. The facade is framed by carved uprights worked with interlaced decoration, with a run of small architectural arches beneath the top rail and a reeded central muntin dividing the two panels. Each panel carries a simple carved quatrefoil motif, giving the chest a strong graphic quality without feeling overly elaborate. The plank top has developed a pale, worn surface with old splits, marks and repairs, contrasting beautifully with the darker front and sides. Built as a practical storage chest, it has the solidity and irregularity that comes with genuine age, while the relatively restrained scale makes it useful today as a blanket box, hall piece or low occasional table.

Dimensions:117cm wide x 49cm deep x 69cm high

Condition:Good antique condition for age with extensive surface wear, knocks, scratches, old splits, small losses and historic repairs throughout. The top is a later replacement and shows age-related wear, marks, shrinkage and old repairs of its own. Historic woodworm holes are dotted across many of the panels and timbers, consistent with the age of the piece. There is also a historic repair to the base, together with further wear and losses around the lower edges and feet. The hinges are later replacements, with evidence of earlier fixing points and alterations around the lid. The interior, back and underside retain the rough, irregular construction and patina expected of an early oak coffer. Please refer closely to the photographs for condition.

Delivery: 100 flat rate for England and Wales only. This is an economy service with a two-person team, delivering to a ground floor room of choice. Please contact us prior to purchase for deliveries involving stairs, restricted access, Scotland, or if an express service is required.