Charles II Devon Carved Oak Box

An exceptionally well-preserved boarded oak box from Devon, the front and sides finely carved with bold double rows of interlaced S-scrolls, enriched with extensive punch-work and retaining faint traces of original red polychrome within the carving. The decoration exemplifies the exuberant regional tradition of West Country carving, where fluid scrollwork and rhythmic punch decoration created a sense of movement and richness. The fitted iron lockplate is original, and the box survives in remarkable condition with excellent surface and colour.