Antique Victorian Colonial Teak & Brass Military Campaign Chest of Drawers (Circa 1840)

Summary:
• Item: Campaign Chest
• Circa: 1840
• Provenance: India / Far East
• Wood: Solid Teak
• Dismantles into two sections
• Rare small proportions
• Single plank top
• Gallery up-stand
• Reeded frame
• Original recessed brass handles
• Brass bindings & corner brackets
• Brass side carrying handles
• Original brass working lever locks with key
• Hand dovetailed drawer construction
• Teak lined drawers
• Original bulbous turned feet
• Lovely rich colour & grain configuration
• Good condition
• Free delivery to mainland England, Wales & southern Scotland*
• Free 14 day UK returns period

Description:
This is a fine quality antique Victorian colonial teak and brass military campaign two-part chest of drawers, of small rare proportions, circa 1840, in good original condition, originating from India or the Far East. Constructed of solid teak with a single piece top with gallery up-stand and reeded carcass below, it features the original recessed brass handles, with brass corner brackets and further brass strap-work. The gallery up-stand would have been used to steady items on top of the chest whilst in transit. The chest also boasts lovely sturdy brass side carrying handles. The brass corner brackets and brass straps were used to protect the chest whilst in transit during campaigns. The drawers are constructed of solid teak with hand-dovetailed drawer linings; the back also retains its original teak backboards. The drawers are in good working order, they are clean inside and close flush to the frame. The drawers also benefit from the original working brass lever locks (with working key). The chest stands on its original fixed bulbous turned feet. The chest divides into two sections for easy transportation. Chests that were constructed in the colonies, such as this one, were usually constructed of solid teak. The chest benefits from a rich brown teak colour, with a wonderful grain configuration to the front and sides, having been polished in our workshops.

This item would look superb in a variety of rooms, especially the bedroom. This campaign chest of drawers would certainly grace any home. So don’t miss out on your chance to own a lovely piece of furniture.

Provenance:
This campaign chest would have been commissioned for a member of the British Raj or a high-ranking officer in the British Army during the reign of Queen Victoria in colonial India (Calcutta) or in the Far East during the mid 19th Century. Mahogany & Teak were used extensively for military chests. “Teak, which had the advantage of only minimally expanding and contracting when exposed to extremes in temperature and humidity, was probably the most commonly used wood. It was resistant to woodworm, termites, and the occasional splash of seawater.” Source British Campaign Furniture, Elegance Under Canvas, 1740 – 1914 by Nicholas A. Brawer, page 97.

Condition Report:
This military chest is in good original condition having been polished in our workshops. There are nominal old use marks to the leading edges, top and corners but nothing significant considering the age of the item. The chest features the original brass inset handles. All the hand dovetailed drawers close flush to the frame. The drawers incorporate working brass lever locks (with working key). The chest retains its original fixed bulbous turned feet and original teak backboards. The chest benefits from a lovely rich brown teak colour and a wonderful grain configuration to the top, front and sides. This item is well made, solid in joint and ready to use.

Dimensions:
Height = 96.1cm or 37⅞” or 3ft 1⅞”
Width (including side handles) = 73.5cm or 29” or 2ft 5”
Depth = 36.2cm or 14¼” or 1ft 2¼”

Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.

Ref. Chest of Drawers 61