Antique French Breton Chestnut & Brass Inlaid Joined Chest / Coffer (Circa 1800)

Summary:
• Item: Coffer / Chest
• Circa: 1800
• Provenance: Brittany, France
• Wood: Solid chestnut
• Large proportions (5ft 11⅝” wide)
• Triple plank top
• Reeded frame
• Symmetrical inlaid star & lozenge panels
• Shaped front stiles
• Original brass studwork to frame
• Joined panelled design
• Original ironwire hinges
• Original internal candle box
• Original steel geometric fretwork key escutcheon
• Working steel lock & key
• Original lid, sides, back & bottom
• Original length reeded feet (stiles)
• Original polish & patination
• Superb deep rich oxblood colour
• Free delivery to England, Wales & Southern Scotland*
• Free 14-day UK returns

Description:
This is an unusual and decorative antique French chestnut and brass inlaid joined coffer, with large proportions, originating from the Brittany region of France, circa 1800, in good original condition. The coffer is constructed with a triple plank top, with a joined section below, which is constructed with butt joints to the corners, secured by handmade iron nails and peg construction. The original lid, which features a nice over-hang, is decorated with a moulded front edge and brass studwork. The lid retains its original iron wire loop hinges, which is nice to see. The interior is clean, dry and practical and usable. The interior also retains its original candle box, lid and floorboards. The lid incorporates a steel striking plate with a steel lever working lock and key on the inside front of the coffer, which allows you to lock the lid if necessary.

The front of the coffer is decorated with four moulded shaped panels incorporating a symmetrical inlaid star, within a symmetrical inlaid lozenge. Further symmetrical inlay is visible on the stiles. The inlay consists walnut and oak. The four panels and the frame of the coffer are decorated with the original brass studwork. The sides of the coffer also feature inset panels. The coffer stands on its original length shaped front stiles (feet). The back of the coffer retains its original rough-hewn panels along with the original floor. Overall, this coffer boasts a lovely deep, rich oxblood colour and patination.

This item would look great in a variety of rooms from the hallway, to the living room or bedroom as an ottoman at the foot of the bed.

This beautiful piece boasts a rich dark red-and-brown oxblood colour. As it boasts the original wax polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination; this can only be achieved through age and years of care and cleaning it has received.

Condition Report:
The coffer is in good original condition. Nominal old marks to the top and leading edges, but nothing significant considering the age of the item. Such old use marks are inevitable and perfectly acceptable due to its age and use it would have received. The interior is clean, dry, and usable. The lid retains its original iron wire loop hinges (these are often replaced).
The coffer retains its original lid, floor, candle lid and compartment, legs, sides and back. The lid incorporates a steel striking plate with a steel lever working lock and key on the inside front of the coffer, which allows you to lock the lid if necessary. The coffer stands on its original length stiles (feet), which is rare to see, although there is some wear to the feet, which has been caused by centuries of standing on stone floors. There is evidence of historical woodworm to backboards and legs; however, this has been thoroughly treated. The coffer is solid in joint; it does not wobble on the floor and is ready to use. Considering the age of this coffer, it is in good condition.

Dimensions:
Height = 66.3cm or 26⅛” or 2ft 2⅛”
External Width (lid) = 182cm or 71⅝” or 5ft 11⅝”
External Depth (lid) = 62.7cm or 24⅝” or 2ft ⅝”

Terms & Conditions:
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Ref. Coffer 30