This robust period Gothic trunk is indicative of the Westphalia region of Germany. The tall, thick legs give the trunk an upright appearance, which is appropriate, given that the German word for this type of trunk, stollentruhe, loosely translates to “thick board chest”. Hand-carved in oak, circa 1600, the trunk is still adorned with the original iron straps and butterfly lock plate. The massive storage space includes a small till, which would have been used to store smaller items. Carved ornamentation has been kept to a minimum (the front legs have partial Gothic tracery along the inner edges), with the viewer’s focus being directed to the impressive construction and strapwork. All the straps terminate in rosettes except for those that run across the back. The lock plate is an elaborate display of pierced and barbed spades flanking a square with canted edges (it is reminiscent of a butterfly with wings spread, hence the term). All of the ironwork served a dual purpose: decorative elements that reinforced the joints against warping.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Very light age separations. No key. A small fill to the top, with larger restoration to the feet, indicative of being stored on cold, damp floors. Very light traces of old woodworm losses.