Museum Quality 18th Century Coffer With Provenance

Description

We found this historical and beautiful oak coffer from the 18th century outside Paris. Inside the top is its provenance, … more We found this historical and beautiful oak coffer from the 18th century outside Paris. Inside the top is its provenance, written on the stationary of Leon Guerin, Notary, Neufchatel-en-Bray. Rough translation: "This oak chest furnished the property of the Baron Ernouf - Bigour (sp?), Prefect of Neufchatel-en-Bray-Seine Triferior under Napoleon III. The last setting of the high official was a pavilion erected on the plateau of the pond, dominating the capital Bayonne to the north. The piece was given to me, the honerable notary, by his heirs, in 1944." We researched Baron Enouf and found Alfred Auguste Ernouf, perhaps one of his descendants, who lived from 1817-1889. On each end of the coffer are classic Elizabethan linenfolds, and on the front are three beautifully carved scenes: to the left is a robed individual, kneeling and holding a feather pen (?). In the middle are two figural heads perhaps with halos above their heads, and with a bird flying between them (Phoenix or bird of paradise?), and ont he right is a kneeling individual holding a heart. The incredible original hand hammered iron lock escutcheon with intricately cut border is in the center top. You will never find another like this. #6327 less