A Fine Charles I Oak Desk Box

The sloping top, rising on the original large iron butterfly hinges, to reveal an interior containing four small drawers with scratch-moulded edges and turned yew wood knobs. Along the bottom edge of the top is a deep moulded “rest” to provided support for books and manuscripts.

The front board is quite exceptional, deeply carved with two stylised serpents with extended tongues and scrolling tails. The serpents are back to back and sit each side of a finely shaped iron lock plate, retaining its original iron hasp. 

Around the base of the box runs a deep and wide bottom moulding. It is worthy of note that all surfaces – fall, bottom, back and end boards – are all cut from single pieces of oak, and finished with a broad plane, the marks of which can still be seen. 

Superb rich colour and patina.

English, possibly Gloucestershire, or West Country, circa 1635.

Width 30 inches, depth 19 inches, height at the back 12 inches, height at front 6.5 inches.

Ref S2943