16th Century Antique Alms / Offertory Box / Poor Box / Mite Box
Description
16th Century Antique Alms / Offertory Box / Poor Box / Mite Box
A 16th-Century antique oak alms box with iron bindings and strapwork. Also known as an offertory box pe poor box or mite box.
A poor box, alms box, offertory box, or mite box is a box that is used to collect coins for charitable purposes. They are found in most Christian churches built before the 19th century and were the main source of funds for poor relief.
The domed top with coin aperture and twin hasps. The front of the box is fitted with two staples to accommodate the hasps.
The lid opens to reveal a void interior.
Provenance – Sourced from a private European collection.
Condition – as per the images. Good overall. A further detailed condition report is available upon request.
Size -. Width 26 cm x Height 19 cm x Depth 14 cm (10 1/4″ x 7 1/2″ x 5 1/2″)
