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18th-Century German Strongbox
- This rare German strongbox stands as an exceptional testament to 18th-century ingenuity
- The chest is adorned with scrolling and foliate decorations, along with lion and crown motifs
- A masterfully concealed keyhole lies hidden beneath the lion on the lid
- The strongbox opens to display its complex yet elegant internal mechanism
- Get complete item description here
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Circa 1750
This rare German strongbox stands as an exceptional testament to 18th-century ingenuity, uniting advanced security with refined ornamentation. Constructed from formidable wrought iron, the chest is adorned with scrolling and foliate decorations along with lion and crown motifs that underscore its commanding presence. A masterfully concealed keyhole lies hidden beneath the lion on the lid, revealed only with a discreet pick, while a false keyhole misdirects the untrained eye.
. . .
Circa 1750
This rare German strongbox stands as an exceptional testament to 18th-century ingenuity, uniting advanced security with refined ornamentation. Constructed from formidable wrought iron, the chest is adorned with scrolling and foliate decorations along with lion and crown motifs that underscore its commanding presence. A masterfully concealed keyhole lies hidden beneath the lion on the lid, revealed only with a discreet pick, while a false keyhole misdirects the untrained eye.
Designed for both beauty and impenetrability, the strongbox opens to display its complex internal mechanism. The underside of the lid reveals this intricate system, an elegant mechanical marvel that once safeguarded a ship’s most valuable possessions.
Often referred to as an “Armada chest,” this type of strongbox was originally produced in southern Germany, particularly in Nuremberg. Though long misattributed as Spanish due to their association with maritime trade, these chests were typically bolted to a ship’s deck or stored in a secure cabin to protect gold, jewels and vital documents during travel. They embody the era’s heightened demand for portable yet highly secure storage during a time of expanding global commerce.
On base: 25 1/2" high x 28 1/2" wide x 21" deep
| Period: | 18th Century |
| Type: | Safes/Strong Boxes |
| Depth: | 20.5 in. (52.07 cm) |
| Width: | 27.5 in. (69.85 cm) |
| Height: | 19.0 in. (48.26 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
