Mid-Tudor Joined Oak Chest with Panelled Front and Original Ironwork

Of substantial rectangular form with a single-plank lid over a run of moulded framed panels, the façade composed of a series of rectangular fields within ovolo-moulded muntins and rails; the stiles carried down to form the feet. The lid with moulded front edge and original iron hasp staple; the front centred by its original wrought-iron lock-plate of Gothic outline with pierced and chisel-worked detail, secured by rose-headed nails. Sides and back framed and panelled. Constructed throughout in pegged mortise-and-tenon joinery; underside with original boarded bottom. The chest preserves an excellent dry, nut-brown surface and honest wear from long use.
This chest epitomises mid-Tudor vernacular joinery: the long, low proportions, ovolo mouldings, and tall stiles continuing as legs belong to the transitional taste of the 1540s–1560s, before the adoption of strapwork and lunette carving later in the century.