Large Superb Antique Korean Ton-Kwe Chest with Iron Hardware

A large and substantial Korean top-lid chest on block feet circa mid-19th century of Joseon Dynasty. Known as coin chest (Ton-Kwe in Korean), this type of chest was originally used for storing money. Larger versions such as this one were probably used to store other household valuables as well. They were always made with strong hardwood and heavy-duty cast iron hardware lock plate for the that reason. The chest on offer is a great example of Ton-Kwe made from thick pine planks stained in a dark brown color on the exterior, supported by two long block feet. The chest was fitted with heavy iron hinges, lock plate, and elongated corner brackets and small medallions in flower forms with copper heads. It was reinforced for the task it was intended. Based on the style of the hardware and the high quality of craftsmanship, the chest was made for a wealthy merchant house in the South part of Korea Peninsular. Their simple shape matches the substantial weight and a deep patina full of characters from the use over time. The interior is clean and lined with rice paper with printed kanji, possibly a historical replacement in the past 80-50 years. A charming piece full of historical characters, with a simplicity without lack of sophistication, that works great even with Modern interior. Great as a coffee table or bed end storage.
To compare with a similar Ton-Kew with different hardware design, see illustration 23 on page 45 in "Traditional Korean Furniture" by Edward Reynolds Wrigt and Man Sill Pai. A nearly identical but smaller chest with the same hardware design is in the collection of Weisman Art Museum, object no. 1987.22.56.