Large Early 16th Century Linenfold Coffer

A large early 16th century French linenfold panelled coffer of heavy duty oak construction and having a five panelled frontage with twin panels at either side. The chest retains its original lock and large candlebox, later hinges and some minor restorations, wood worm damage, commensurate with age. The chest has a fantastic rich dark patina and is in excellent condition. Provenance - From Lowood house, near Melrose ,Scotland. This was part of a collection which was put together in the mid 19th century by James and Jane Ewing who embarked on a thirteen month grand tour in 1844 of the continent. James Ewing was actively buying art and antiques both before and during his ‘Grand Tour’. At one point, his collection included a Titian he acquired in Venice, now in The Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The Crum Ewing’s fortunes were founded by James Ewing (1775-1853), who established the business of James Ewing & Co. at the beginning of the 19th century, which was rapidly successful. In the 1830s, James was Lord Provost and Mp for Glasgow.