Coffret à mailles

Unknown

late 15th century · Wood, wrought iron · Robert Lehman Collection

Caskets such as this one must have been produced in large quantities, as numerous examples remain. They were called coffret à mailles or à la manière d’Espagne, in connection to the fine iron tracery of the sides and cover. Sometimes referred to as a missal box, this type probably preserved precious objects such as jewelry or small illuminated prayer books. This small box has two suspension rings to carry it, possibly on a girdle. The front is probably an old replacement.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 15th century

Medium

Wood, wrought iron

Culture

French

Department

Robert Lehman Collection

Credit line

Robert Lehman Collection, 1975