Jan & John Maggs
Antiques and Art
An early joined coffer with an unusually constructed lid
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Found in Connecticut, this pleasing coffer has a three-panel face carved with rosettes. The frame is formed by rails and stiles treated with a pleasant, moulded pattern, with punch decoration in its central rabbet. The construction of the lid mirrors this pattern, but the joiner chose to divide each of the three panels with an “extra” rail, giving the lid the appearance of greater strength (and security?) The back was constructed of two panels; note the through tenons on the stiles.
Despite its strength, the front rail was broken, probably by someone mistaking the coffer for a settle(!). It has been repaired. The bottom of the coffer has also been replaced; instead of several thin boards extending from front to back, the restorer installed a wide pine board, inserting it into the rabbet on the rear of the lower front rail and nailing it onto the back, as was usual in the period.
English, ca. 1680
Lid: 46 ¼” X 20”; Height: 26 ¼”
Price: $850
Questions? Click HERE.
Inventory #27640
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