Merchant’s strongbox

Merchant’s strongbox, with carved front panels. Used in Malindi for much of its working life.

Height

444 mm

Width

807 mm

Depth

613 mm

Weight

37.36 kg

Method: Measured at inspection

Materials

Camphor wood, teak, brass fittings

Condition

Good — Complete, with wear consistent with age and use.Verified

Condition notes

Minor losses to the finish; otherwise sound.

Efua Asante, 1934: Received as a gift. Johan Nkosi, 1948: Passed by inheritance. Mussa Bekele, 1978: Passed by inheritance. Lamu Railway Heritage Trust, 1981: Institutional transfer by the current custodian.

1. c. 1890–1910
   Maker unknown Manufacture

   Made.

   EstimateSource: Specialist opinion
2. 1934
   Efua Asante Gift · Malindi

   Received as a gift.

   Applicant-submittedSource: Letter
3. 1948
   Johan Nkosi Inheritance · Malindi

   Passed by inheritance.

   VerifiedSource: Will
4. 1978
   Mussa Bekele Inheritance · Malindi

   Passed by inheritance.

   VerifiedSource: Bill of sale
5. 1981
   Lamu Railway Heritage Trust Transfer · Malindi

   Institutional transfer by the current custodian.

   Applicant-submittedSource: Will
6. 1981
   Lamu Railway Heritage Trust Registration · Malindi

   Entered on the Global Heritage Registry.

   VerifiedSource: Registry decision

Acquired by current custodian

Institutional transfer, 1981 — Mussa BekeleVerified

No physical inspection has been carried out. Facts marked Verified were confirmed from documentary evidence.