A beautiful display of French craftsmanship, this large Gothic-style trunk was hand-carved in the 1600s from chestnut. The highly detailed front façade features multiple sections of arcading, complete with niches supported by colonnades and filled with trefoil and cusp tracery. Interestingly, every side of the trunk (including the robust lid and the bottom) was carved from a single plank of wood, most likely all from the same chestnut tree. The wood has some fabulous, deep grains that add nuances to the warm, brown finish, which has a lovely patina accentuated by French wax. Also of note are the original iron straps (the interior arm which keeps the lid open has been added more recently) that strengthen the visible dovetail joinery. The S-scrolled feet were also added more recently and are well done, slightly elevating the fantastic Gothic trunk. Each side has an ovate drop handle that allows the trunk to be moved about the house, making it a versatile storage piece for a bedroom, living room, or game room.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition with minor nicks and rubs, commensurate with wood that is 400+ years old. Some light age separations to the interior. No key. Traces of existing restoration work, with some additions, such as the feet and the metal arm to keep the top open.