18th Century German Baroque Oak Chest

Rectangular oak body panelled on three sides with flat lid and original wrought-iron handles. The verticals of the front frame are carved in relief with a typical scale pattern.

Dimensions
Height: 63 cm / 24.8 inch.
Width: 144 cm / 56.69 inch.
Depth: 54 cm / 21.25 inch.

Interior dimensions: 54 cm (21.25 inch) high, 136 cm (53.54 inch) wide, 47 cm (18.5 inch) deep

Chests like this one were also traditionally used as dowry chests. They were used to bring the bride’s trousseau or dowry into the newly formed household, e.g. in the form of crockery and home textiles. This is also indicated by the extra compartment inside for the separate storage of valuables. Similar to (trousseau/wedding) cabinets, the chest was often originally painted in polychrome and monogrammed with the couple’s names and the wedding year. It was usually placed in the kitchen or the chamber (bedroom) of the house.

Today, for example, it is ideal for hallways and entrance areas for practical storage and as a seat.

An authentic piece of furniture with great patina and texture. Over the years there are various visible traces of past repairs and minor alterations. The lid has been sawn off on both sides, presumably because the chest once had to fit into a niche. The lock and 3 of 4 prism-shaped decorative elements on the front are also missing.

The outer surface was carefully cleaned with steel wool and the interior was completely sanded. The lid was re-glued. A holder for placing the lid was added.

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