A large and impressive Gothic style oak coffer, Normandy 19th century

incorporating early 16th century panels, with a thick moulded and carved hinged lid, the front and sides inset with panels of blind tracery and architectural pilasters, centred by a bold iron lock above a narrative panel, on block feet

Illustrated Gordon Nares, Country Life, Newton Surmaville, Somerset - II, September 12th, 1952, pl. 3. p. 761, in the hall.

A decorative lot with real presence. Dark colour throughout. Traces of worm. Typical separation to cover and the surface with wear and old marks and scratches. Hasp sits unevenly on lock plate. Worm damage and fragmenting to the early panels consistent with their great age. The interior shows separartiosn to the rear boards and to the floor. Scuffing to feet. Key lacking. Please note the illustration has been reversed for the catalogue. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising or David Macdonald on 0207 293 5107 or 0207 293 5507.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The chest in its current form may well be a re-arrangement of fragments from a much earlier similar chest. Chests of this bold architectural type with profusely carved tracery are usually from the Normandy area. There is an extant 16th century example in the Church of the Holy Cross, Crediton, Devon which also features a biblical scene below the lock. There are many similarities with the offered lot which would suggest that the 19th century 'restorer' and cabinet maker must have been aware of correct form, or utilised a partially destroyed chest - incorporating rare fragments.

See Charles Tracey, Continental Church Furniture in England, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2001, p. 146, pl. 122.

For a comparative but earlier example offered at auction see The Haute Epoch Sale, these rooms, 31st October 2007, Lot 56.