Incredibly Rare Medieval English Oak Chest | Furniture, Works of Art & Clocks & The Age of Oak
3 Video Views·Sep 1, 2026
Watch as Mark Yuan-Richards, Associate Director and Head of Furniture, discusses an incredibly rare English medieval carved oak chest - a comparable specimen of which has not appeared on the open market in the past century.
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Video Summary
AI GeneratedThis exceptionally rare English medieval boarded oak chest, dating back over 500 years, will be featured in the William Wallace and the Age of Oak Auction on October 2nd. Having survived centuries of conflict, including the Reformation and World Wars, the piece is noted for its historical significance, intricate carvings, and prestigious provenance from Farley Castle and Abbey Church House.
Welcome to William Wallace and the Age of Oak Auction on the 2nd of October.
My name is Mark U. N. Richards and I'm really proud to present lot 924, this exceptionally
rare and historically important English medieval boarded oak chest. Surviving the Reformation,
Civil Wars and World Wars, it is an exceptional piece. The front of the chest is richly carved
with three registers of mythical beasts including serpents, dragons and a Lincoln imp. The tier
bands on this chest bear a resemblance to a select group of 15th century chests and also
a chest in St. Michael's Church, Annick. This exceptional chest has a wonderful provenance,
having resided at Farley Castle and then formerly at Abbey Church House in Bath.
14th and 15th century English furniture doesn't come onto the market very often,
so this is a great opportunity to acquire a piece of furniture over 500 years old.