This handsome Baroque style oak trunk has a domed top and whimsical patinated iron mounts. The trunk was crafted in the 1700’s (possibly 1757). These types of domed oak trunks with decorative iron work were produced in France, Germany, Switzerland, and even Sweden.
Molded edges (except for the back) and a dome top whose sides hang over the body make the trunk seem larger than it truly is. Three iron straps hug the contour of the top, running from the opening of the trunk to the back side. Near the lid opening, the straps transition into pierced margents, consisting of quartered roundels and imaginative scrolls. The bottom of the middle strap has a pierced cartouche with sinuous edges. A pair of floret pulls have been placed in between the straps. The edges of the lid have additional pierced mounts with airy scrolls.
The frivolity of the straps on the lid are magnified by the playful iron mounts on the frontage. The keyhole is surrounded by a large, open cartouche that is flanked by two small florets and an arching margent of pierced scrolls. On each side of the margent there are two mythical creatures (four in total). The upper pair is winged humanoids, while the two lower ones are rampant quadrupeds. In between the bottom pair, four mounts form the numerals “1757”, although the “1” is missing.
There are three horizontal straps on each side of the frontage. They have similar motifs to the straps on the lid. The middle strap continues to the side and has an oval handle bracketed to it. Under the dome top is a till box with a flip top. This would have been used to store small, valuable items that would normally fall to the bottom of the trunk and become buried under larger items such as linens and clothing. The deeply molded base and bracket feet would have helped keep items secure from mildewing floors.
Perhaps once used as a traveling trunk (based on the size and the handles), this 18th century iron bound domed oak trunk could be placed at the foot of a bed and used to store bedding material. It could also be used in a library or living room. The bright silver patinated iron mounts contrast the pretty golden oak color very well.
CONDITION: Wear commensurate to age and use with minor rubs and nicks. Slight age separation to dome top. Iron mounts have buildup and faded elements with a few breaks and missing nails. The “1” in the date is missing, as is the key.
