Military Campaign Secretaire Teak Chest (Circa 1880)

SOLD

Here is an example of a good quality and rare antique colonial military campaign teak two part secretaire chest of drawers (circa 1880).

Summary
• Item Secretaire Chest
• Circa 1880
• Period Victorian
• Provenance Calcutta, India
• Wood Teak
• Internal compartments and drawers
• Green writing baize within
• Dismantles into two sections
• Original brass bindings
• Original brass handles
• Original brass locks
• Original ebony diamond escutcheons
• Original inset handles
• Original working locks and key
• Hand dove tail joint drawer construction
• Teak 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 1880). The original shaped brass inset handles, brass corner brackets and ebony diamond escutcheons are in good condition. The chest features sturdy brass carrying handles attached to the sides. The brass corner brackets were used to protect the chest whilst in transit during campaigns. The front folds outwards to reveal a secretaire interior which boasts seven shaped compartments two large and one small central drawer. The desk has a green baize within. The chest is constructed of teak. Likewise, the hand dove-tailed drawers are constructed of solid teak 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 as it had the advantage of only minimally expanding and contracting when exposed to extremes in temperature and humidity.

Dimensions: 
Height 101.5cm or 3’ 4”
Width 105cm or 3’ 5”
Depth 50cm or 1’ 7½”

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 carrying handles, brass inset drawers handles, brass studs, locks and key are all original. There are very old ink stains in the top two drawers. 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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