JEWELLERY, DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS AUCTION Tuesday, 23 July 2024 - 10:00 AM start

An important and rare German two part coffer for flour and salt, made in Burg zu Groß-Karben, near Frankfurt, in 1616.

Lot Details

The upper section with a frieze of German Gothic script, reading (translated) "Think of it whilst you are young. What would be the profit of it when you are old. Everybody should save as much as he can. All effort would be a trouble when you are old." The pine and oak panelled breakfront coffer is decorated in marquetry and parquetry of mixed fine timbers. The upper section with hinged top with recessed panels and mitred mouldings, strapwork hinges, iron lock with key. The interior with one fitted compartment and lid to the left hand end. The front with Doric columns flanking heraldic architectural panels, and further with flora and fauna. The lower section with two drawers and panels decorated with strapwork. With worked iron handles to drawers and sides. On six large bun feet. 1690 x 815 x 1100mm. Provenance: By descent to Christoph Freiherr von Leonhardi, Warkworth, New Zealand. Thence, the collection of John and Valerie Robertson, Auckland. Purchased at Cordy's Auctions, circa 1988. Lot 577. https://tinyurl.com/KoSwiss https://tinyurl.com/SothUK https://tinyurl.com/DunnOZ