French, probably Paris
Coffer (book box?) with woodcut depicting the Monogram of Christ, ca. 1490–1500
wood, paper, metal, and red canvas
Museum Purchase, Lloyd O. and Marjorie Strong Coulter Fund
2008.8
In the 1480s King Louis XI of France passed laws that required travelers to carry identification while traversing roads and entering city boundaries. This stipulation led to the creation of “messenger” or “traveler” boxes for transporting both valuables and documents. Most boxes contained separate, hidden compartments for identification, and included locks to keep valuables safe. This box has metal loops on the top to hold it in place during transport on horseback. Remarkably, the box and the early woodcut print on the inside of its lid have remained undamaged. The print depicts the Passion of Christ. The gory depiction of blood gushing from Christ’s hands, feet, and chest remind the viewer of his suffering. The print served as both symbolic protection for the traveler and an object of personal devotion.