16th century large chest strongbox iron and walnut

A quite large 16th century Italian so called 'coffre fort' . Coffers or chest like these were specifically made for cities or large villages to safegueard the gold and valuables. They are typically outfitted with 3 large locks of which the keys are divided on to the 3 most important individuals of the city. So these 3 persons needed all to be present to open it. Apart from its history it's a beautiful original example of which the patina is a artwork in its own right. The solid walnut and the handforged iron seem to have immersed in to a sculpture made by time. Beautiful and very rare chest with great aura.