Bidspirit auction | Safe with secret lock, Central

Safe with secret lock, Central European School, 16th Century - Riveted iron with polychrome painted decoration. Measures 14 x 24 x 15 cm. A rare rectangular safe assembled entirely with rivets and equipped with a sophisticated internal secret locking mechanism. The four exterior faces are decorated with stylized plant and fruit motifs in ochre, reddish, and brown tones, executed according to the Central European folk tradition of the 16th century. The wrought iron top handle and floral cabochons lend a robust and ornamental character to the piece. The interior retains its complex original system of springs and levers, a testament to remarkable metallurgical and mechanical craftsmanship. Oxidation, paint loss, and natural wear accentuate the piece's historical authenticity and reinforce its powerful aesthetic presence. 14 x 24 x 15 cm.