19th Century Swedish Hand Painted Marriage Coffer

Charming 19th Century Swedish marriage coffer, with its original hand-painted decoration.

Dowry/ marriage chests were a widespread tradition across all continents. They were sent with the bride to her new marital home, and filled with sentimental and essential belongings.

This lovely example features charming painted decoration, ironwork handles, and an internal candle box - (the escutcheon is present but the lock is nonfunctioning / no key). Being flat-topped these chests always serve well as a stylish coffee table.

A truly lovely piece, full of history and character.