A Fine Cromwellian Oak Deed Box

The top – formed from a single board of oak, and retaining the original strap hinges and bearers, above a fabulous geometric designed front. The two panels, decorated by mitred mouldings, are separated by beautifully turned split balusters, the centre pair just flanking the original iron escutcheon.

Around the base is a good, deep concave moulding, whilst the base itself is again a single oak board (a mirror of the piece used for the top).

This deed, or table, box has the most fantastic rich colour and very deep patina.

Provenance – from the collection of the veteran collector Fred Skull, and discussed and photographed in ‘The Shorter Dictionary of English Furniture’ by Ralph Edwards.

English, probably East Anglian, circa 1660.

Width 29.5 inches, depth 18 inches, height 10 inches.

Ref 588