Antique Tuareg Wooden Strongbox & Key, Western Sahara Mauritania / Morocco

Antique Tuareg wooden strongbox from the Western Sahara (Mauritania / Morocco), with mixed-metal mounts and its original key.

The rectangular hardwood chest is reinforced by substantial iron / white-metal straps and richly decorated on the front and lid with overlaid plaques in bronze, iron and other white metal, fixed with domed copper studs – a construction typical of Tuareg chests from the Western Saharan region, particularly Mauritania and southern Morocco.

The front is centred by the original lock-plate and working lock, flanked by pairs of circular and “figure-of-eight” roundels with pierced geometric motifs. The lid is decorated with a long pierced panel and a row of studs, and is finished with a small turned finial to the centre. The back and sides retain their original simple strap mounts.

Inside, the box is plain, as usual for these travelling strongboxes used to keep valuables and personal possessions safe during caravan journeys across the Sahara.

Length: 22 cm.

Good condition. Honest wear and patina from use. Rubbing, small marks and oxidation to the metal elements as expected on a working Tuareg chest; minor age-related wear and staining to the interior. Lock in working order with the original key.

SOLD WITH A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY

It is possible to pay in installments.

On parle français.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call me 0678679716 or email tdixonfrance@yahoo.co.uk.

Frais de port inclus pour la France. Shipping included in the price for FRANCE. Price does not include international shipping. Please contact me for a shipping quote. I am happy to combine shipping costs if you buy more than one item to save you money.

Please note that I ship all items insured priority mail with tracking.

I am an Englishman living down in the beautiful rural South of France and spend my days searching the little brocantes, flea markets, and shops for treasures.

Any questions will be answered promptly.

MONEY BACK WITHOUT QUESTION IF I MISREPRESENT SOMETHING IN ANY WAY.

I want YOU to be happy at the end of the day, so buy with confidence.

I take a great deal of care packing — I have a proven track record of selling high value, fragile items that arrive safely worldwide.

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