The Royal Society’s chest
Date
ca.1663
Creator
Object type
Archive reference number
Material
Dimensions
height (object): 335mm
width (object): 660mm
depth (object): 385mm
width (object): 660mm
depth (object): 385mm
Subject
Content object
Description
The Royal Society’s chest, sometimes known as the Treasurer’s chest. A wrought iron box with iron straps and a hidden keyhole. The chest has two carrying handles. Internally, the locking mechanism is covered by a decorated and polished sheet iron panel incorporating human eye designs and there is a small side compartment. The box has an accompanying key and two additional padlocks.
The inscription ‘R.S. Chest’ is painted on the front of the box. The object is displayed on a later (19th century?) wooden frame with casters.
The inscription ‘R.S. Chest’ is painted on the front of the box. The object is displayed on a later (19th century?) wooden frame with casters.
Object history
Presented by William Ball FRS, 1663.
The donation is recorded in the Royal Society’s minutes: ‘Mr Ball presented the Society with an Iron-Chest, having three locks and keys; and with a Promise of One Hundred pounds sterling to be paid for their use, before the first day of April next. He was received the Solemne thanks of the Society, and it was ordered he should be recorded as a Benefactor upon the payment thereof.' Royal Society Journal Book Original JBO/2 minutes of a meeting, 16 December 1663.
William Ball (c.1631-1690) British astronomer was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1660 and acted as the organisation’s first Treasurer.
The donation is recorded in the Royal Society’s minutes: ‘Mr Ball presented the Society with an Iron-Chest, having three locks and keys; and with a Promise of One Hundred pounds sterling to be paid for their use, before the first day of April next. He was received the Solemne thanks of the Society, and it was ordered he should be recorded as a Benefactor upon the payment thereof.' Royal Society Journal Book Original JBO/2 minutes of a meeting, 16 December 1663.
William Ball (c.1631-1690) British astronomer was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1660 and acted as the organisation’s first Treasurer.
Related fellows
William Ball (1631 - 1690, British) , Astronomer
Associated place