18th-Century French Leather-Clad Domed Coffre (Trunk) with Studded Decoration

A substantial provincial coffre (trunk) of oak sheathed in richly patinated, amber-toned leather and embellished on every face with elaborate nail-head (clouté) patterns—spirals, lozenges, and border bands executed in hundreds of brass studs. The arched lid lifts on forged strap hinges and secures with its original hasp and staple; pierced iron side handles facilitate carrying. Representative of the trunks made in Southern France for travel or dowry storage, it combines sturdy joinery with Baroque decorative flair. Wear, scuffs, and minor losses consistent with age enhance the warm surface and attest to centuries of service. Dimensions: 37 in W × 25.25 in H × 21 in D.

Trunk