17th Century English Carved Oak Three-Panel Coffer, 1650

Details

Description

A characterful 17th century English joined oak coffer, dating to approximately 1650–1700, with a richly carved three-panel façade and wonderfully … Read more A characterful 17th century English joined oak coffer, dating to approximately 1650–1700, with a richly carved three-panel façade and wonderfully aged dark oak surface.

The front is arranged as three framed panels, each hand-carved with an architectural arched design incorporating stylised foliate and geometric decoration. The repeated arcade creates a particularly strong and balanced façade, while centuries of use have developed a deep, warm patina with lighter areas of wear highlighting the carving.

Constructed using traditional joined techniques, the coffer retains the wonderfully irregular character expected of furniture of this age. The interior reveals substantial hand-worked timbers, broad boards, old iron fittings and extensive tool marks. The upright corner stiles continue to form the legs, lifting the main chest clear of the floor.

The hinged lid opens to reveal a generous storage compartment, making this an exceptionally decorative yet still practical piece of early English furniture.

More than three centuries of wear, repairs and alteration form an important part of the coffer's character and history. Rather than detracting from the piece, these details provide a fascinating record of its long working life.

A striking example of early vernacular furniture that would sit particularly well within a contemporary interior. See less