Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
A Diminutive Early 17th-Century Chip-Carved Antique Oak Boarded Box / Bible Box
A Diminutive Early 17th-Century Chip-Carved Antique Oak Boarded Box / Bible Box
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A finely preserved early 17th‑century chip‑carved boarded box, crafted in oak and displaying the distinctive geometric carving associated with Northern European folk‑tradition work of the period. The lid, façade and side panels are decorated with hand‑cut chip‑carved motifs — crisp, rhythmic, and deeply incised — giving the piece a striking sculptural presence.
Constructed using traditional boarded techniques, the box is formed from oak planks joined with early nails and pegged elements, typical of domestic storage boxes of the mid‑to‑late 1600s. The surface shows a rich, time‑earned patina, with warm colouration and gentle burnishing from centuries of handling.
Internally, the box is void of any fittings but retains its blue paper lining.
These boxes were often used for valuables, documents, devotional books, or small personal possessions. The survival of its carving in such clarity is particularly appealing, offering both decorative impact and strong historical character.
A wonderful example of early woodworking skill and vernacular design — tactile, authentic, and highly collectable.
Provenance: Early 17thC. Northern Europe, most probably the Netherlands. Ex-John Bank collection.
Materials: Oak, iron and brass.
Condition: Please refer to the images. There is surface wear commensurate with age. The iron hinges have been replaced historically with later brass hinges.
Dimensions:
Width: 42.5 cm (16.73 in)
Depth: 21.5 cm (8.46 in)
Height: 15 cm (5.91 in)
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We are a member of the following 4 Professional Associations:
1. LAPADA (London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association) – LAPADA is the UK’s largest trade association for professional art & antique dealers (representing approximately 500 UK dealer members). All items are backed by our LAPADA guarantee;
2. CINOA –Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvres d'Art, (or International Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers' Associations) is the world association of art & antique dealer associations (representing 5000 dealers from 32 associations in 22 countries);
3. The Norfolk & Suffolk Antique Dealers Association - Representing reputable, high quality antiques dealers based in Norfolk and Suffolk; and
4. FSB - Federation of Small Business.
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