Arca de caudales. Spain, 16th-17th centuries.
Chestnut and wrought iron.
With padlock and key.
Measurements: 86 x 136 x 70 cm.
Strongly structured safe, reinforced by means of iron bands nailed on three of its four sides. It follows a clearly Renaissance design, clear and tidy, with the reticulated front decorated with star motifs. The corners are also reinforced with iron bands. The hinged lid, divided into two panels, is joined to the case by two solid hinges. On the outside, the box has two movable handles on the sides and, on the front, a complicated locking system consisting of a locking escutcheon and a latch in the upper area. Money and jewellery, as well as valuable papers and documents, were kept in the chests. Kings, nobles and high-ranking officials made use of this type of chest, which was also used by private individuals and wealthy merchants, which is why they were in great demand in the 16th and 17th centuries.