A rare German or Austrian wrought and chiselled iron strong box on stand, possibly Hirschberg early 18th century

in the manner of Johann Gottlieb Dittman and Sigmund Gatchen, the sides with carrying handles and raised on a wrought metal stand

Probably Stephen Tempest of Broughton, (1689 - 1771) thence by descent to Sir Charles Henry Tempest, 1st Bt. (1834 - 1894), thence by descent to Ethel Mary Tempest (1869 - 1937) who married Miles Stapleton, 10th Lord Beaumont (1850 - 1895) thence by descent.

There is no key. The locking mechanism is very impressive, with a large number of springs and shootiing bolts that will require repair as there are some fractures and losses. The mechanism may well have been covered by a pierced grill originally. This piece has been opened for the view but may well be shut during transit after the sale. It will then require re-opening by a professional restorer. Additional images of the interior are available on request. Very attractive casting and applied decoration. Some rusting especially to the top. There are some rust trails evident in the catalogue below the lid on the front these are evident in the catalogue illustration. An attractive piece in overall good condition and very unusual. The lid is currently locked and the swivel action escutcheon is 'sticky' and would benefit from lubrication. It is felt that this piece is probably Northern European, however the lid is not signed and through its design French manufacture cannot be ruled out.
"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."

For a similar strong box signed to the interior by Dittman and Gatchen and worthy of comparison see a very fine example from The Alphonse de Rothschild Collection which was sold on the 26th of March 1973 at the De Rede sale in Monaco as lot 167. The Rothschild box featured bold architectural detailing, hounds to the lid and was also raised on a stand.