18th Century Elm and Pine Six Plank Coffer with 19th Century Folk Art Decoration

18th Century Elm and Pine Six Plank Coffer A good 18th century elm and pine six plank coffer, retaining an attractive later folk art decorated front panel, likely dating to the mid-19th century and inscribed with initials and the date “58”, almost certainly for 1858. Of traditional boarded construction, the coffer is raised on its original stile end supports, with a well-figured elm top above a pine carcass. The front is simply moulded and centred with a pair of applied lozenge motifs, flanked by naive painted decoration which has worn back gently over time and now sits comfortably within the surface. The top displays particularly pleasing grain and colour, with a soft, undisturbed patina consistent with age and use. Internally, the coffer retains its original till and original strap hinges, and is fitted with what is likely its original lock plate and catch. The interior is clean and usable, with good colour throughout. A practical and decorative piece of country furniture, well suited to a variety of interiors, offering useful storage and a strong sense of age and character without being overly heavy or imposing. A particularly honest example with good colour and attractive later decoration, offering a little more character than many comparable plain coffers currently on the market.