Westphalia, North Germany, 15th/16th century

iron and oak, the lift up top with a large hasp

This is an atmospheric piece of furniture. It shows signs of its great age. There is wear and evidence of worm to the core carcase throughout. The back of the interior is slightly loose (on the left side) and there is fragmenting to the rear. The iron band running along the top of the lid, and the hasp, are later additions. There was formerly a till to the interior. The interior of the lid shows a replaced section of wood. Some signs of patching to the carcase as to be expected. Legs re-tipped with spliced repairs. Sothebys London (4311), Lot 247, 28.10.04; £ 11'115.00 (hammer with premium).
"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."

This type of chest with multiple iron straps is loosely imitating the style of the Tuscan Gothic and was popular in Northern Europe in the 15th century. These chests were all of similar form but varied slightly in their carving and feet and manner of opening e.g. top, side, fall-front.

See Heinrich Kreisel, Die Kunst des Deutschen Mobels, Munich, 1968, plate 42, for a similar chest in the Kunstgewerbemuseum, Cologne, with different tapering legs but a virtually identical arrangement of pierced trefoil straps. And for another similar see pl. 45 for a similar chest in the Kurpfalzisches Museum, Heidelberg. For a related chest offered at auction see Sotheby's, New York, 13 December 2003, lot  53.