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17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
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17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box

  • This rare 17th-century maritime strong box is made with kingwood oyster veneer
  • It features a fleur-de-lis and foliate-pierced strapwork design
  • Boxes like these were once a critical element in the Dutch Republic's maritime trade
  • It comes equipped with a central lock and concealed bolts for security
  • Get complete item description here
$44,500
Item No. 31-9813

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Description
Maritime Strong Box
Circa 1670

This 17th-century coffre fort, or strong box, is an exceptional maritime treasure. Braving shipwrecks, storms and the ravages of time—particularly the decay that often threatens wooden antiquities—this rare large example has survived in remarkable condition. Crafted with kingwood oyster-veneered panels, this impressive box showcases a magnificent fleur-de-lis and foliate-pierced strapwork hinged top. While undeniably beautiful and decorative, it was also among the most formidable pieces of furniture of its. . .
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Maritime Strong Box
Circa 1670

This 17th-century coffre fort, or strong box, is an exceptional maritime treasure. Braving shipwrecks, storms and the ravages of time—particularly the decay that often threatens wooden antiquities—this rare large example has survived in remarkable condition. Crafted with kingwood oyster-veneered panels, this impressive box showcases a magnificent fleur-de-lis and foliate-pierced strapwork hinged top. While undeniably beautiful and decorative, it was also among the most formidable pieces of furniture of its time.

Onboard a ship, the captain's strong box was one of his most prized possessions. It safeguarded critical documents—from royal orders to funds for purchasing inventory—playing a pivotal role in the Dutch Republic's dominance over global trade. The Dutch fleet, renowned as the most powerful and advanced trading network of the era, relied on the secure and efficient communication of information, much of which was entrusted to such a strong box. Equipped with a robust central lock and two concealed bolts designed to be screwed into the ship's floorboards, it provided unparalleled security at sea. Only a handful of large 17th-century strong boxes have survived, and this example is an astonishing museum-quality treasure.

13 3/4" high x 21 1/4" wide x 13 3/4" deep
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17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
Period: 17th Century
Type: Safes/Strong Boxes
Depth: 13.75 in. (34.93 cm)
Width: 21.25 in. (53.98 cm)
Height: 13.75 in. (34.93 cm)
17th-Century Dutch Maritime Strong Box
Ahoy! The Golden Age of Pirates and Maritime Art

Introduction The golden age of pirates—a period most commonly identified as the late 17th and early 18th centuries—has long captivated imaginations and scholarly interest alike. This era is most vividly resurrected through art,...

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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.