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Italian Hobnail Safe
- This rare and imposing Italian iron hobnail safe was crafted in the early 19th century
- Four different keys and a pick are required to open the iron-armored safe
- Few hobnail safes of this quality, complexity and age exist today, and even fewer at this scale
- Get complete item description here
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Italian
Circa 1820
This rare and monumental Italian safe, circa 1820, is constructed from reinforced wrought iron, rendering it virtually indestructible. Designed to be impenetrable without the proper keys and expertise, it served as a secure repository for safeguarding one’s most valuable possessions. A hallmark of Italian safes of this caliber is their intricate locking mechanisms, and this exceptional example features a masterfully engineered system. To unlock it, one would need. . .
Italian
Circa 1820
This rare and monumental Italian safe, circa 1820, is constructed from reinforced wrought iron, rendering it virtually indestructible. Designed to be impenetrable without the proper keys and expertise, it served as a secure repository for safeguarding one’s most valuable possessions. A hallmark of Italian safes of this caliber is their intricate locking mechanisms, and this exceptional example features a masterfully engineered system. To unlock it, one would need not only four distinct iron keys—each corresponding to a concealed keyhole—but also a specialized lock pick. Known as a "partner safe," this design required the cooperation of multiple keyholders, often business partners, to open the safe, providing an extraordinary level of security.
In addition to its measured, architectural form, the safe displays a refined gilt design across the front that underscores its ceremonial character. The interior is equally engaging. Opening the door reveals a locked lower chest that remains entirely original, complemented by a series of upper wooden drawers preserved in remarkable condition. These drawers retain their period inscriptions, which function as practical labels identifying materials related to purchases, documents and goods associated with Biella in northern Italy. Each inscription clarifies the nature of the contents once stored within and reflects the safe’s connection to Biella, a city in the Piedmont region situated at the foothills of the Alps.
Crafted to protect against both theft and fire, safes of this complexity and scale were frequently used by merchants in lieu of banks, making them essential tools for safeguarding wealth during the period. Few hobnail safes of this extraordinary size, craftsmanship, and sophistication have survived to the present day, making this example an exceptionally rare and significant artifact.
43 3/8" high x 30 7/8" wide x 17 1/2" deep
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Type: | Safes/Strong Boxes |
| Depth: | 17.5 in. (44.45 cm) |
| Width: | 30.88 in. (78.42 cm) |
| Height: | 43.38 in. (110.17 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
