A Finely Carved and Metal Mounted Casket ‘Minnekästchen’

Epoque: 14th century

Origine: Germany

Medium: Wood, steel, vellum lining

Provenance: Private collection Switzerland 
Cesati, Tefaf, Maastricht 
Ex Private collection

Literature: Crafted in the Upper Rhine region during the 14th and 15th centuries, these caskets primarily served as betrothal vessels, with some instances of commemorative function. Characteristic of this period’s craftsmanship are the iron mounts and flower-head terminals. Frequently, the caskets are adorned with heraldic motifs or dedicatory inscriptions, often placed above intricate latticework backgrounds.