Chest
handles are traditionally called "becket". Sailors would
make them at sea during spare time, using rigging scraps of rope,
canvas and leather. From the simplest loop of rope, to intricate
work, a pair of beckets showcased its owner's knowledge of rope
work, and status.
Detail
of a bolt, covered with leather where it passes through the wooden
cleat. Leather washers reduce the wear of the rope work. The strands
are covered with canvas and knotted.
The
beckets are protected with a few coats of pine tar, and then varnished.
In
this case the beckets are painted and varnished.
