Coffret a mailles

Unknown

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

This coffret à mailles is covered with a double layer of wrought-iron sheaving with late Gothic grillwork, mounted on a wood support; the interior is lined with modern, red velvet. 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.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 15th century

Medium

Wood, wrought iron

Culture

French

Department

Robert Lehman Collection

Credit line

Robert Lehman Collection, 1975