Chest - Wood

iron-bound merchant’s chest

A very early and exceptionally well-preserved merchant’s / travel chest, constructed from wide hand-cut oak planks using traditional double-board construction.

Reinforced with fully original wrought-iron straps, decorative forged plates and a personalised hand-forged monogram “HM”.
The ironwork features asymmetrical hammer marks, thick pre-industrial plates and early leaf-motifs,

Joinery is executed with original wooden pegs (no modern screws).
The chest displays all technical characteristics of early 17th-century craftsmanship.

Lock: The original lock mechanism was lost; the present lock was installed in the 19th century (a typical historical repair). The original forged lock-plate, hinges and striker element remain in place.

Condition: Very good for over 400 years. Original wood and ironwork preserved. Expected wear, patina, surface marks and age-related irregularities. Base/foot frame added in the 19th century.

Origin: Central Europe (Germany / Austria region)
Materials: Oak, wrought iron

Dimensions:
• Length: 121 cm
• Width: 61 cm
• Height: 77 cm