Anglo-Indian Camphor Campaign Chest

Description

Stunning mid-19th Century solid Camphor wood trunk with campaign brass binding and incredible flame-like grain. Standing on turned feet, likely a later addition. All compartments do lock, including the two exterior locks, keys pictured.

Campaign-era trunks were most commonly utilized by British naval officers who had them commissioned them for military campaigns. The brass banding offers protection at the areas of the trunk that are most frequently bumped during travel. Camphor wood is durable, moisture resistant, and its distinctive aroma is a natural and effective insect repellent. The combination of all these merits made camphor the ideal material for travel trunks. Personal goods, particularly textiles and furs (think wool uniforms) are kept safe from moths and all prized possessions safe from wood-boring beetles and other pests during long ocean voyages of the time.

These benefits translate just as well to modern life. Though one is not likely to be going any naval voyages; camphor trunks are still just as effective for storage of linens, wools, and blankets as they were in the Victorian era. A fabulous, beautiful storage piece for a bedroom, hallway or living space.

Interior tray lifts out to reveal ample storage space and two small drawers under the left-hand compartment. Additional storage in lid with two mirrored doors on either side of a carving of Ganesha, known in Hinduism as the god of wisdom, good fortune, and new beginnings (among other things).See

Dimensions

34ʺW × 19.5ʺD × 17.5ʺH

Styles

Anglo-Indian

Campaign

Period

Mid 19th Century

Country of Origin

India

Item Type

Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned

Shop Sustainably with Chairish

Materials

Wood

Condition

Good Condition, Original Design Modified, Some Imperfections

Color

Brown

Condition Notes

It is in fabulous condition, inside & out. The brass handles and the turned feet are later additions, though neither …moreIt is in fabulous condition, inside & out. The brass handles and the turned feet are later additions, though neither are recent. Rear right foot is split, but structurally sound. Feet could be removed to return to original form, if desired.