Antique 17th/18th century oak deed or storage box

In detail we have the following:

Of nailed and boarded construction

The front board is constructed from quarter sawn oak (the medullary rays can clearly be seen)

Original lock plate

Original lock

No hasp

The key is period to the item, but is not original to the item

The tassle is not original to the piece but has been added for decorative effect

Thumbnail carving to the edges of the front board

Carved initials ‘F’ and ‘C’ on the front board

Scribed/shallow incised geometric decoration to the front board

Strap hinges (replacements)

Void interior

The top appears at first glance to consist of two boards, but the grain match is perfect, indicating that the top began life as a single board and that the distance between the two boards is an expansion crack created over time by changes in humidity

Battens have historically been added underneath the top to join the 'two' top boards together (probably carried out in the 19th century) 

Roughly hewn back board

Evidence of historic woodworm (and damage) to the edges of the pine base (common since pine is a soft wood). Though the damage is historic this item has nevertheless been liberally sprayed with woodworm killer as is standard procedure upon receipt of newly acquired items

Dimensions:

Maximum Width: 55.5cms

Depth: 42.5cms

Height: 26cms

Delivery will be via Royal Mail (Tracked 48 hour service) with listed exclusions, but personal collection from Buntingford, East Herts SG9 is most welcome

Please see my other items which are predominantly 17th and 18th century in date