Travel case in walnut and wrought iron – Louis XIV period.

A Louis XIV period travel case in solid walnut, adorned with wrought and cut iron fittings.

Rectangular in shape, it features a slightly domed lid and exceptionally fine construction.

The case employs concealed dovetail joints with mitered covers: entirely hidden within the thickness of the wood, the dovetails reveal only a mitered joint on the exterior. This technique, more elaborate than exposed dovetail joints, allows for perfectly clean edges while maintaining the strength of the assembly.

The case is reinforced with iron bands on the lid, the various sides, and the base. These are complemented at the corners by numerous cut and nailed iron fittings, depicting scrolls, foliage, and floral motifs, some of which evoke the fleur-de-lis.

Two movable wrought iron handles on the sides facilitated its transport. They feature beautiful wrought ironwork with rhythmic rings and bulges. The iron hinges are also original.

The lock is one of the particularly interesting elements of this box. A large internal iron lock simultaneously controls five locking points distributed across its entire width. The five bolts engage in five strike plates, thus securing the lid.

The lock is complete and functional, with an antique key.

With its side handles and elaborate locking system, this box belongs to the family of travel and security boxes designed for transporting and storing documents, personal effects, or valuables.

This principle of a secure box can still be found in the early 18th century on so-called "messenger" boxes, intended primarily for transporting valuable documents. An example made by Pierre Hache around 1725-1735, equipped with a sophisticated safety mechanism, is notably documented by Pierre and Françoise Rouge in "Le génie des Hache," no. 40.

Our example thus combines a particularly refined solid walnut construction with ironwork that is both functional and decorative. The preservation of its fittings, handles, hinges, and locking system helps to maintain the overall coherence of this Louis XIV period travel case.

Dimensions:
Width: 39.5 cm
Depth: 30 cm
Height: 21.5 cm

Ref: QBZ6VDOTKX