Large French Studded Leather Travelling Chest

Large French Studded Leather Travelling Chest

An impressive Large French Studded Leather Travelling Chest, this elegant storage piece epitomises late 16th to 17th-century French craftsmanship. A superb example of period works of art, it seamlessly blends utility and ornate design, reflecting the travel and luxury of early modern Europe.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1650
Material: Beech wood and leather with iron fittings

Dimensions: Height: 39 cm (15.3 in)
Width: 54 cm (21.2 in)
Depth: 27 cm (10.6 in)

Condition: Fine historical patina, featuring the original hasp and lockplate; the silk lining is a later, sympathetic addition.

Renowned for their robust construction and ornate embellishments, French travelling chests of this era were indispensable companions for the affluent and nobility on their journeys. The rich beech wood structure, clad in leather and adorned with iron flowerhead domed studding, draws favourable comparisons with celebrated examples exhibited in leading European collections. Such chests are prized not only for their practical storage qualities but also for their reflection of transitional French aesthetics between the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Notable Features:

• Striking studwork: Decorative iron flowerhead and domed studs enrich the front, top, and sides, showcasing artisanal metalwork typical of 17th-century French storage chests.
• Original hardware: Retains its early hasp and lockplate, providing authenticity and charm, rarely seen in chests of this age.
• Sympathetic interior: The chest’s interior benefits from a tastefully later applied decorated silk lining, enhancing its usability while preserving its antique integrity.
• Period design: The combination of solid beech wood, robust leather, and intricate ironwork speaks to the chest’s resilience and the high craftsmanship of French works of art from the time.

For collectors, the Large French Studded Leather Travelling Chest offers significant value due to its rarity, excellent historical state and desirable dimensions. Its versatile form allows it to serve as a statement piece in period-inspired interiors, a focal point in a collection of storage chests, or as a functional and decorative element in a finely furnished room.

A testament to refined utility, this chest embodies the spirit of its era—a prized addition for those seeking both storage and a distinguished example of 17th-century French works of art.