Welcome to my listing for this fantastic 17th century "armada" safe box. This iron bound chest instantly oozes pirate adventure and intrigue.This safe box features a complex locking mechanism with five moving bolts. The hidden key hole plate is also in situ which is often lost along with the ornate internal mechanism plate cover, again still in place and showing horses and foliage. The exterior also features banded iron work, two heavy iron handles and twin hasps. This amazing chest box is sold "as found" with rusting, imperfections etc due to its great age. Locking mechanism works although obviously old so not as smooth as once was. key has possibly been historically adapted. These can be many thousands of pounds but think this one is well priced and a wonderful object.
Dating back to an era before modern banking, safety deposit boxes and burglar alarms, ownership of these 'Armada Chests' would have been the reserve of only the very richest, upper echelons of society - a place to safeguard accumulated wealth, money, important documents and other riches. The term 'Armada Chest' was coined by the Victorians, who imagined strong boxes such as this being laden with Spanish gold! In fact, rather than having anything to do with the Spanish Armada, this style of heavy iron-bound chest, typically accompanied by intricate multi-point locking, 'hidden' keyholes and false escutcheons, was developed by the Germans in the 17th and 18th centuries.Delivery via pallet or man with van is included but collection if you prefer from Bradford on Tone, near Taunton is no problem. Listing includes VAT which can be claimed back if you are eligible.
CUSTOMER INFORMATION: We try to give a very clear and accurate description of this product and the write up and pictures form an honest representation however if more information is needed prior to a purchase please contact us - 07977 595081.