A late 17th-century Russian iron-bound and leather-clad oak chest Vologda Oblast, circa 1680 Of elliptical arched rectangular form, the lid and front with close-nailed decorative formalised scroll-pierced strapwork decoration, the sides similarly decorated and with twin carrying handles, the right-hand side with lid stay, the front with ring handle above a scroll-pierced cartouche lock plate with key, the rear with plain straps, the interior features with probably 18th century painted decoration beneath the lid, overpainted with a later heraldic device: the coat of arms of the Swedish noble Stenbock family, above a scroll paper motto SEMPER.IN.ALTIS. The Stenbock family's military legacy includes Count Magnus Stenbock's participation in the Battle of Narva (1700), fought against Russian forces during the Great Northern War, 64cm high, 80cm wide, 54cm deep Footnotes: The offered lot is an example of a Russian leather clad chest originating from Veliky Ustyug, a historic centre of craft and trade in the Vologda region, renowned for the production of leather clad wooden chests. This uncommon form of decoration, given that most chests were painted, employed tanned, dyed, and often embossed leather coverings. These surfaces were typically adorned with traditional Russian motifs such as floral and geometric patterns, stylised animals, and symbolic or religious imagery. The leather cladding served not only an aesthetic purpose but also a practical one, offering protection against moisture and wear, thereby extending the chest's longevity. It was sometimes further embellished with painted decoration in the more traditional style. Metal fittings, including wrought iron or brass hinges and mounts, added structural integrity and ornamental detail. Previously believed to be English and dating from the mid-17th century, more recent research has confirmed its Russian origins, dating it to a slightly later date when this attribution was verified by the curatorial staff at the State Historical Museum, Moscow. In additional a directly comparable chest is in the museum's collection, which exhibits similar construction techniques and decoration which is similarly attributed and dated (see Inventory No: ГИМ 2584щ Д-IV-1611 ГК 17658588). Other examples are preserved within the Museum's holdings, notably from the P. I. Schukin (or Shchukin) collection. Pavel Ivanovich Schukin (1848-1899), a prominent Russian merchant and collector from the influential Schukin family, assembled a significant collection of Russian applied and decorative arts, including leather clad chests, iconography, textiles, and folk art. His collection was later donated or acquired by Russian state institutions, with the State Historical Museum now holding a substantial portion. Chests such as the offered lot were regarded as high status objects, frequently included in bridal dowries or used as ceremonial furnishings in affluent households, symbolising wealth and social standing. Their robust construction made them ideal for storing precious textiles, documents, or valuables. The present chest's unusual inclusion of a Swedish heraldic device to the interior lid introduces a rare intersection of northern European military and noble histories around the turn of the 18th century, illuminating its cross-cultural significance. As such it represents an exceptional survival of late 17th-century Russian craftsmanship, imbued with broader historical narratives. This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: TP TP For auctions held in Scotland: Please refer to the catalogue and/or after-sale information or contact Edinburgh@Bonhams.com for more information. For all other auctions: Lots will be moved to an offsite storage location (The Packengers, Unit 9, Abbey Mead Industrial Park, Brooker Road, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1HU, England, UK) and will only be available for collection from this location at the date stated in the catalogue and/or after-sale information, sent out to all buyers post-sale. Please note transfer and storage charges will apply to any lots not collected after 10 calendar days from the auction date. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing