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17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
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17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box

  • This rare 17th-century maritime strong box is made with kingwood oyster veneer
  • It features a fleur-de-lis and foliate-pierced strapwork design
  • Boxes like these were once a critical element in the Dutch Republic's maritime trade
  • It comes equipped with a central lock and concealed bolts for security
  • Get complete item description here
$44,500
Item No. 31-9813

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Description
Maritime Strong Box
Circa 1670

This 17th-century coffre fort, or strong box, is an exceptional maritime treasure. Braving shipwrecks, storms and the ravages of time—particularly the decay that often threatens wooden antiquities—this rare large example has survived in remarkable condition. Crafted with kingwood oyster-veneered panels, this impressive box showcases a magnificent fleur-de-lis and foliate-pierced strapwork hinged top. While undeniably beautiful and decorative, it was also among the most formidable pieces of furniture of its. . .
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Maritime Strong Box
Circa 1670

This 17th-century coffre fort, or strong box, is an exceptional maritime treasure. Braving shipwrecks, storms and the ravages of time—particularly the decay that often threatens wooden antiquities—this rare large example has survived in remarkable condition. Crafted with kingwood oyster-veneered panels, this impressive box showcases a magnificent fleur-de-lis and foliate-pierced strapwork hinged top. While undeniably beautiful and decorative, it was also among the most formidable pieces of furniture of its time.

Onboard a ship, the captain's strong box was one of his most prized possessions. It safeguarded critical documents—from royal orders to funds for purchasing inventory—playing a pivotal role in the Dutch Republic's dominance over global trade. The Dutch fleet, renowned as the most powerful and advanced trading network of the era, relied on the secure and efficient communication of information, much of which was entrusted to such a strong box. Equipped with a robust central lock and two concealed bolts designed to be screwed into the ship's floorboards, it provided unparalleled security at sea. Only a handful of large 17th-century strong boxes have survived, and this example is an astonishing museum-quality treasure.

13 3/4" high x 21 1/4" wide x 13 3/4" deep
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17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
Period: 17th Century
Type: Safes/Strong Boxes
Depth: 13.75 in. (34.93 cm)
Width: 21.25 in. (53.98 cm)
Height: 13.75 in. (34.93 cm)
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
Ahoy! The Golden Age of Pirates and Maritime Art

Introduction The golden age of pirates—a period most commonly identified as the late 17th and early 18th centuries—has long captivated imaginations and scholarly interest alike. This era is most vividly resurrected through art,...

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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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