This surprisingly heavy little box is unusual in that the boards are dovetailed rather than just nailed or pegged together. The front board bears the carved initials EH and the date 1681 on a punchwork background on either side of the original lockplate. The front, side boards and top are decorated with chip carving in a swirling design. On the right in the interior it has small till under which there is secret drawer. One of the iron butterfly hinges has been replaced, probably soon after its construction, by a strapwork hinge. Small holes in the corners of the bottom board suggest that it must have secured at some point which combined with the secret drawer, may indicate that it held valuables. It has superb rich dark colour and patination and measures 25 inches wide x 12 inches deep x 9 1/2 inches high.

Ref: 10928

Price: POA