A Superb Quality Mid 19th Century Camphor Wood Military Campaign Chest, Of Traditional Two Part Construction, Having Wonderfully Figured Timbers Throughout, Original Brass Bound Decoration, Two Short And Three Long Drawers, All Retaining Their Original Flush Fitting Brass Handles, The Locks Stamped “Hobbs & Co, London”, Raised On Original Turned Feet.

This is a particularly good quality example of a military campaign chest, with lovely rich colour and figuring to the camphor wood throughout. The brass fittings provide an attractive contrast to the timber, whilst the practical two part construction was originally designed to allow the chest to be easily transported during military campaigns.

As the name suggests, military campaign chests were originally made for use by senior members of the armed forces, often having to be transported from one location to another at relatively short notice. Their design therefore incorporated a number of practical features, including the two part construction for ease of movement, flush fitting brass handles to prevent snagging during transportation, and brass bound corners and edges to protect the chest from the inevitable knocks and bumps associated with military life.

The chest retains an extremely rich colour and surface throughout, with the usual old marks, scuffs and minor imperfections associated with age and use, all blending in nicely. It’s worth noting as well that this is at the very top end of the quality scale in terms of its construction and the materials used, with the original brass fittings and Hobbs & Co locks further emphasising the quality of the piece.

It has been carefully attended to in our workshops by our skilled traditional antique furniture restorers, receiving an appropriate natural wax polish, and is now ready to place in the home.

Circa 1860.

Height 40in.
Width 39in.
Depth 17.75in.