A French Gothic carved oak coffer, probably Normandy late 15th/early 16th century

with an associated rectangular top opening to reveal a candlebox, the front with four tracery panels interposed by crockets, the central panel depicting a courtly scene, on an associated platform base; lockplate replaced

Old marks, chips and scratches, commensurate with age. The lock plate is a modern replacement. The top has gouges commensurate with age and normal usage and has horizontal construction cracks which are quite normal. In overall good conserved condition. A rare model.
"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:
Charles Tracy, Continental Church Furniture in England, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2001, p. 146, plate 122, no. F/4, for a related Normandy chest, circa 1500, now in the Church of the Holy Cross, Crediton, Devon, reproduced here in fig.1.

The coffer or chest was traditionally made by a person who originally primarily worked in leather and the name derives from the French cuivrier whose principal trade was the manufacturer of trunks, boxes, travelling chests amongst other things in a technique which consisted of covering a wooden frame with leather, cloth or painted paper.

The Gothic tracery on this chest reflects the  way the craftsmen at that time looked to the stonemason's work for inspiration and its treatment was easier with a more tractable material such as oak which gave a crisper defintion to Gothic forms. Carvers began to associate decorative devices which they invented  with traditional Gothic ornament, of which the linenfold panel is best known. This decorative feature was introduced by Flemish craftsmen during the latter part of the 15th century and may well have been a symbol on the panels of chests and cupboards where bed linens, or scrolls and parchments were kept.

It is interesting to note that the importance of Gothic chests (or coffres) was such that their makers, in 1254, were allowed by the Provost of Paris to form their own guild separate to that of the carpenters.

A similar chest  was sold, in these Rooms, lot 56, Haute Epoque, 31st October 2007.