Antica cassetta per offerte olandese in rovere con serratura e chiave in ferro battuto e imbuto in - Charity box (2) - Wrought iron, Rovere

Ancient Dutch offertory box (alms) in oak with a lock and key in wrought iron and a sheet-metal funnel - 18th century

Ancient Dutch offertory box for collecting offerings, made of solid oak with reinforced and wrought iron hinges and a funnel in sheet metal on the lid to insert coins. It has a tapered shape with a tall vertical development, displaying a beautiful dark patina given by time and use.

The hinged lid, reinforced by two iron braces with round-headed studs, is equipped with large iron hinges and opens at the back. On the top opening there is a conical funnel in sheet metal, fixed with a collar and tabs. Inside, the box has a wooden ramp to guide the coins and a separate bottom, with a wrought-iron locking mechanism fixed to the wall.

On the front there is a lock with a beautiful decorative wrought-iron plate, shaped in rococo-style volutes, with a hole for the key. The item comes with the original iron key with an oval ring and a fluted shaft. The sides are reinforced by iron strips riveted on. On one side there is a small slit opening, probably for gripping and carrying.

In terms of form, materials and craftsmanship (mortise-and-tenon assembly, hand-worked iron), it is indicative of the 18th century. Objects like this are typical in churches, confraternities or public places for collecting offerings.

DETAILS
- Type: offertory box / alms box with funnel, lock and key
- Materials: oak, wrought iron
- Era: 18th century
- Origin: Netherlands
- Dimensions: height 26 cm, width 15 cm, depth 14.5 cm
- Weight: 2399 g
- Accessories: original iron key, functional

CONDITIONS
Good overall condition for its age, with signs of use and a patina of time. The structure is solid. The lock functions correctly with the original key, and the lid opens and closes smoothly. All parts, including the internal ones, are original. No known restorations. Please examine all photos closely, which are part of the description.

SHIPPING
Heavy item (about 2.4 kg) with metal parts: carefully packed in a rigid box with protection and shipped via insured and trackable courier.