Beautiful 17th Century Small Oak Chest or Deed Box c. 1640

With a fabulous colour and natural deep patination, this wonderful very small oak chest has retained its original timbers throughout and original lock plate and hasp.

The front and side boards carved with palm leaves in arched carved and punched borders with carved tulip crestings. With punched open flowerhead decoration to the flanks and thumb moulded border to the lid.

The iron hasp engranved with the initials S M

On the inner face of the box, covering the old lock, are some squares of newspaper advertising various steam liners cruising Liverpool to New York, Boston, The Asia, and Jamaica. Also mention of Samuel and Edward Cunard along with various steam ship names and captains which indicate that the newspapers date from 1830s/1840s.

The iron hinges are very old and have old rivets. These have been on the box for most of its life – possibly the originals repaired and refitted or these may be late 17th century replacements.

Lovely slender wainscot oak boards, all original. Single oak board to base which oversails the principal boards and has a curved border. There is no evidence of this box ever having feet or having had any alterations. No worm or repairs, some nibbles to the edges of the bottom board but no significant damage, knocks or marks.

A really beautiful small chest, heavy and robust, made by a skilled hand around 400 years ago.

In beautiful usable condition and with superb patination from centuries of handling, wax and care.