Mauritanian Treasure Chest with Curved Top

Studs, hasps and a domed lid: a chest that plans to keep its secrets.

This treasure chest with a curved top comes from Mauritania, in northwest Africa, and was made in wood, iron and copper in the 20th century. Chests of this kind are commonly used to store valuables, documents and clothing. The domed lid is bound with iron straps. The front is studded with rounded copper and iron plaques and a large keyhole plate with a looped latch. The wood is a dark brown, worn pale at the edges.

About 24 inches wide and 12 tall. Small, solid and a little theatrical.