A Westphalian wrought iron mounted oak `stollentruhe' or coffer 15th/16th century

of rectangular form, mounted with studded iron bands terminating in a flowerhead

Construction cracks generally commensurate with age. Some of the studs on the straps would appear to have been replaced and a few are missing. Minor evidence of old insect damage as visible from the photograph, which appears to be no longer active. Some rusting to the iron commensurate with age, especially on the left side. There are some horizontal construction cracks in the side which can easily be filled . There is a large gouge to the rear left stile. The candle box inside is later. The top has been strengthened on the reverse with a later wooden panel. In overall good conserved condition. Good example of a "STOLLENTRUHE".
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Comparative Literature:
Thuis in de late middleleeuwen, Het Nederlands burgerinterieur 1400-1535, Exhibition at the Overijssels, Museum, 5^th October -31^st December 1980, p. 168, fig. 272, for a related 15th century coffer with similar flowerhead mounts, in the Provinciaal Overijssels Museum, Zwolle, inv. nr. 5442.
Also see H.Kreisel, Die Kunst des Deutschen Möbels, Von den Anfängen bis zum Hochbarock,München, 1968, Vol. I, plate 44, for a Westphalian `stollentruhe' with similar mounts and plate 45, op. cit.,  for another related `stollentruhe'.
This type of chest with multiple iron straps is loosely imitating the style of the Tuscan Gothic and was popular in Northern Europe in the 15th century. These chests were all of similar form but varied slightly in their carving and feet.