Bidspirit auction | Very Early English Carved Oak

Very Early English Carved Oak Blanket Chest (Coffer), 17th/18th Century - Impressive very early English oak blanket chest of classic coffer form, constructed with thick plank sides and a deeply carved three-panel façade. The front is decorated with bold geometric and floral motifs, including central rosette-style ornament within a framed lozenge panel, flanked by carved compass-style designs. Above, a richly carved frieze of scrolling foliage and interlace runs the full length, giving the chest excellent architectural presence. The lid is unusual in that it is constructed as a half-opening top, a practical early feature that allowed access while conserving space in smaller interiors. Retaining a dark, richly oxidized surface with heavy wear and patina that only centuries of use can produce, this is an outstanding early storage form with tremendous decorative appeal and authentic country-house character. 24 in H, 51 in W, 22 in D. Condition: Wear consistent with age and long use; surface abrasions, scattered losses, shrinkage separations, and edge wear; lid functional.