A 17th CENTURY GERMAN WROUGHT IRON 'ARMADA' CHEST WITH MERMAIDS

Wrought iron, paint
Germany, 17th century

This 17th century antique wrought iron safe is an Armada chest, identifiable due to the mermaid motif on the inside of the lid. The trunk features a large decorative medallion on the front, which also serves as a false keyhole. Two strong handles are on the sides, and a lock and original key on the top. The lock mechanism inside is very intricate and covered by a pierced and incised steel plate that shows stylized mermaids. The mechanism attached to the underside of the lid covers the entire surface, using a meticulous system of gears that activate several bolts with a single turn of the key. The outside is patinated and inside is a green varnish.

Dimensions: length is 87 cm, height is 48 cm, maximum depth is 49 cm
Condition: chest is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, two padlocks are additions as is the additional and removable opening mechanism supports inside
Provenance: Austrian private collection

Auction result comparison: CHRISTIE'S, Interiors – Masters & Makers, London, South Kensington, 3 December 2013, 238 (for a comparable Armada chest)