Here is an example of a good quality and rare antique colonial military campaign teak two-part secretaire chest of drawers (circa 1830 – 1850).
Summary
• Item Secretaire Chest
• Circa 1830 – 1850
• Period Victorian
• Provenance England
• Wood Teak
• Internal compartments and drawers
• Leather writing pad within
• Dismantles into two sections
• Original brass bindings
• Original brass locks
• Original inset handles
• Original working locks and key
• Hand dove-tail joint drawer construction
• Chestnut drawer linings
• Attached feet
• Original top and bottom
• Excellent proportions
• Excellent colour / patination
Here is an example of a superb quality and rare antique colonial military campaign teak two-part secretaire chest of drawers (circa 1830 – 1850). The original shaped brass inset handles brass corner brackets and brass escutcheons are in very good condition. The brass corner brackets were used to protect the chest whilst in transit during campaigns. The front folds outwards to reveal the secretaire interior that has three working drawers inside. There is one large and two small drawers. The chest has a blue leather and gold tool pad within. The chest is constructed of teak. The hand dove-tailed drawers are constructed of solid chestnut and have working locks and a key. The turned feet have been firmly attached however they originally would have been detachable.
This item would look superb in a variety of rooms from the conservatory, hall way, bedroom or the living room. This campaign chest of drawers would certainly grace any home. So don’t miss out 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) during the mid 19th Century. Teak was 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.
Dimensions:
Height 106.5cm or 42”
Width 99cm or 39”
Depth 48cm or 19”
Condition Report:
This chest is in a good original condition and is commensurate with its age. There are a few superficial used marks to the top, corners and leading edges but nothing significant considering the age of the item. The top and bottom are original (and not a match). The brass inset drawers handles brass studs, locks and key are all original. The chest is solid in joint. Free of wood worm. Please remember, this has been a working piece of furniture in the military field.
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