A 17th century heavy cast iron strong box or 'Armada' chest,...

Hammer

£1,850

A 17th century heavy cast iron strong box or 'Armada' chest, probably German, with working key, of rectangular form with iron strapwork design, the full width lift lid on three hinges with swivelling escutcheon, opening to reveal an internal lock box, missing key, and hinged stay for the lid, the lock mechanism with seven shooting bolts and three fixed, decorated with an engraved pierced frieze of four male profiles with rams horns, surrounded by leaves and heart shaped covers, wrought iron carry handles to each end, two free clasps to the front and further keyhole, hammered riveted joints throughout, 73 by 39 by 37cm high.
Provenance: purchased lot 92, Christie's, South Kensington, London, 13th August 1986, with original invoice.