Magnificent 17th Century Iron Strongbox with Polychrome Traces and Complex Lock Mechanism
Original price was: € 1.800,00.€ 1.000,00Current price is: € 1.000,00.
A rare 17th-century European iron strongbox, masterfully hand-forged with a breathtaking internal lock mechanism, original key, and faint remnants of its original polychrome decoration. A museum-worthy piece of security craftsmanship.
Out of stock
This exceptional iron strongbox, dating from the late 17th century (circa 1680–1700), embodies the ingenuity and robust artistry of Baroque European locksmiths. Entirely hand-forged from heavy iron plates, meticulously riveted and reinforced with intricate strapping, it was designed to safeguard coins, documents, and valuables in an era when security was entirely mechanical.
The lid conceals a spectacular multi-bolt lock mechanism, a true masterpiece of early locksmithing, with a beautifully engineered interplay of levers and bolts that activate in sequence when turned with its original key. Opening it reveals an interior that speaks of centuries of use and history.
The exterior retains traces of its original polychrome paint, now softly faded into a sublime patina of aged iron, earthy green hues, and subtle hints of red. Elegant forged carrying handles on the sides and decorative escutcheons frame the keyhole, lending this utilitarian object a distinct sense of Baroque ornamentation.
This strongbox is not merely a storage chest—it is a statement of power, wealth, and prestige, once belonging to merchants, guilds, or noble households. Its weight, authenticity, and tactile presence make it an arresting centerpiece for any serious collection or a striking focal point in a modern interior.
-
Period: Late 17th century, circa 1680–1700
-
Origin: Central Europe (likely German or Austrian craftsmanship)
-
Dimensions: H 42 cm x W 75 cm x D 40 cm
Related Products
by Thalita Eik‑Constantinescu, 1947 pastel portrait of blonde girl in orange folk dress, framed under glass.
1 in stock
Rare antique octagonal pedestal table entirely decorated in pyrography and polychrome, combining Neo-Brâncovenesc geometric ornament with Moorish Revival architectural form. Bucharest or Wallachia, circa 1890–1910.
Out of stock
A deeply tactile and visually striking milk vessel from the Fulani (Peuls) people of Cameroon. Carved from a single block of dense hardwood, the bowl is adorned with hand-incised and scorched tribal motifs. A functional object transformed into an artifact of enduring aesthetic and ethnographic value.
1 in stock
A 19th–early 20th century Dutch spinning wheel in dark-stained hardwood, featuring finely turned supports and a bronze medallion bearing a crowned “W” monogram, symbolizing the reign of Queen Wilhelmina. A decorative yet functional piece of Dutch textile heritage.
Out of stock
An authentic West African slit drum, hand-carved from a single log with deep vertical openings and a natural animal-skin drumhead. Showing pronounced surface erosion, rich patina, and visible adze tool marks, this late 19th–early 20th century piece served for both ritual music and long-distance communication in a traditional village setting.
1 in stock
A finely carved Chinese Qing Dynasty hardwood plant stand, dating circa 1880–1900, featuring an inset marble top and intricate openwork detailing. A graceful late 19th-century piece combining traditional Chinese craftsmanship with elegant proportions.
A striking African ceremonial drum, mid-20th century, carved with three stylized tribal faces and topped with its original goatskin hide secured by natural fiber ropes. A powerful example of mid-century tribal artistry, both decorative and functional.
1 in stock
Ancient molded terracotta oil lamp with stylized decoration and central filling hole, attributed to Roman or Samaritan-type production.
Out of stock
A striking industrial theatre spotlight by Strand Electric, mounted on its original wheeled tripod stand. Made in England around the 1950s–60s, this sculptural lighting piece retains its authentic lens and cast aluminium body, now rewired for domestic interior use.
1 in stock
A striking hand-painted wooden tack box evoking English countryside tradition, featuring an equestrian and hound scene with references to the West Kent Hunt and Major D.H. Hartley. With rustic rope handles, turned wood knobs, and deep drawer storage, this characterful piece merges nostalgic craftsmanship with historical charm.
1 in stock
An elegant French oil lamp from the late 19th century, featuring a hand-painted opaline glass font with floral decoration, mounted on a veined marble shaft and resting on an ornate cast spelter base. A refined example of Belle Époque domestic design, blending artistry and functionality.
1 in stock
An authentic Bamana (Bambara) Chi Wara headdress from Mali, finely hand-carved in the stylized antelope form symbolic of agriculture and fertility. Adorned with cowrie shells and fiber tassels, it bears a deep, warm patina from traditional ceremonial use.
1 in stock