Iron-decorated chest from Loimaa

This iron-decorated chest was commissioned for herself by the daughter of the owner of the Hulmi riding farm in Vesikoski, Loimaa, in 1788. Loimaa was the largest centre for the production of flat-top chests. A heavy ram’s horn iron decoration was typical of chests made in Loimaa. Until the end of the 18th century, the main emphasis of the decoration of chests was on decorative iron bands. In the 18th century, ornamental painting could be used on the inside of the lid, but not on the outside of the chest.

Photo: Matti Kilponen, 2021.