Antique Himalayan Merchant Strongbox Hand-Forged Iron & Key | Circa 18th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Northern India, Nepal, or Tibet
Material: Elmwood and hand-forged iron
Period: Late 18th to Early 19th Century (circa 1780–1820)
Description
This exceptionally well-preserved lockbox is crafted from solid elmwood, reinforced with elaborate hand-forged iron mounts and fittings. The box features a large circular hasp plate with a perforated border, robust corner strapping, and its original locking mechanism, complete with an ornate iron key. Constructed for both strength and mobility, the chest demonstrates meticulous craftsmanship, with visible tool marks and a rich aged patina on both wood and iron surfaces. Lockboxes of this type were traditionally used by merchants, monks, or officials to safeguard valuables, sacred objects, and important documents while traveling across the Himalayan and Central Asian trade routes.
Features
- Constructed from solid elmwood with dovetail joinery
- All original hand-forged ironwork, including hinges, straps, and lock
- Large circular hasp plate with decorative perforations
- Original working lock with ornate iron key
- Unaltered interior, clean and intact
- Beautiful natural patina on both wood and iron
Cultural Significance
Traveling chests and lockboxes served as essential storage and security vessels across South and Central Asia. Beyond their utilitarian function, they symbolized trust and authority, often accompanying merchants on trade expeditions or safeguarding religious items in monasteries. The survival of this example with its key intact reflects not only durability but also the reverence afforded to well-made protective chests of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with no modern repairs. Surface wear, oxidation to iron, and minor marks consistent with age and use. Lock remains functional with original key.
Dimensions (approximate)
Width: 9.5 in
Depth: 4.5 in
Age
Estimated late 18th to early 19th century (circa 1780–1820)
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Northern India, Nepal, or Tibet
Material: Elmwood and hand-forged iron
Period: Late 18th to Early 19th Century (circa 1780–1820)
Description
This exceptionally well-preserved lockbox is crafted from solid elmwood, reinforced with elaborate hand-forged iron mounts and fittings. The box features a large circular hasp plate with a perforated border, robust corner strapping, and its original locking mechanism, complete with an ornate iron key. Constructed for both strength and mobility, the chest demonstrates meticulous craftsmanship, with visible tool marks and a rich aged patina on both wood and iron surfaces. Lockboxes of this type were traditionally used by merchants, monks, or officials to safeguard valuables, sacred objects, and important documents while traveling across the Himalayan and Central Asian trade routes.
Features
- Constructed from solid elmwood with dovetail joinery
- All original hand-forged ironwork, including hinges, straps, and lock
- Large circular hasp plate with decorative perforations
- Original working lock with ornate iron key
- Unaltered interior, clean and intact
- Beautiful natural patina on both wood and iron
Cultural Significance
Traveling chests and lockboxes served as essential storage and security vessels across South and Central Asia. Beyond their utilitarian function, they symbolized trust and authority, often accompanying merchants on trade expeditions or safeguarding religious items in monasteries. The survival of this example with its key intact reflects not only durability but also the reverence afforded to well-made protective chests of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with no modern repairs. Surface wear, oxidation to iron, and minor marks consistent with age and use. Lock remains functional with original key.
Dimensions (approximate)
Width: 9.5 in
Depth: 4.5 in
Age
Estimated late 18th to early 19th century (circa 1780–1820)
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