Victorian Metal-bound Painted Travelling Trunk with Red Interior

A characterful late-19th-century Victorian metal-bound travelling trunk, retaining its original painted exterior, brass lock plates and clasps, leather side handles, and studded metal edging. c Mid 19thc

The trunk opens to reveal a bold red-painted interior, creating strong visual contrast when opened and making it particularly appealing for interior use. The exterior surface bears original travel labels and areas of wear, adding to its authenticity and decorative charm.

Raised on small original castors, this piece is easily movable and ideally proportioned for use as a coffee table, blanket chest, or end-of-bed trunk, as well as a striking storage piece in a hallway, study, or hospitality setting.

Made by Vander & Hedges, 26 Bond Street, London - Vander & Hedges, London silversmiths and retailers.

Background. It’s thought that this company was established in 1812 by the descendants of Etienne de Tessier, a Huguenot refugee who arrived in England in 1712. It was listed in an 1841 directory as Griffin & Tessier, goldsmiths and silversmiths, at 32 South Audley Street. Partners, Louis (Lewis) and Alexander Tessier (c.1795-after 1861), advertised in 1851 as Louis Tessier & Sons, active as artists in hair mourning jewellery at 32 Conduit Street and 32 South Audley Street. After the retirement of L.A. Tessier (1857) the business was managed by his sons Henry Thomas Louis Tessier (1816-1891) and Edward Tessier, a partnership which was dissolved in 1869. H.T.L. Tessier continued the business at 32 South Audley Street while Edward Tessier maintained the business at 26 New Bond Street.

Vander & Hedges. When Edward Tessier died in 1875 the business was sold to John Gotlieu Vander and John Hedges who continued the activity as E. Tessier and/or Vander & Hedges. After the dissolution of the partnership with Hedges (1900) Vander continued the business until his death (1910)

A versatile and decorative antique with genuine age, patina, and presence.

Condition

Good antique condition overall, with surface wear, scuffs, and paint losses consistent with age and travel use.

Interior paint refreshed at some point.

All clasps, hinges, and handles present.

Structurally sound.

We are primarily a web based business showing high quality antiques and decorative items in two warehouses in Lambourn Woodlands, Berkshire and Tetbury , Gloucestershire . Within easy reach of M4 Junctions and with a mainline station nearby and good private car parking facilities at all venues. We display the widest variety of antiques at all price levels, including paintings, furniture, fireside pieces and other decorative interior items. Not all our items are at any particular place so please call or email (enquiries@marlboroughantiques.com) or from our Contact page to avoid disappointment. Please view our Terms and conditions if needed at http://www.marlboroughantiques.com/terms.php.

We are very happy to discuss with clients their needs and to provide a sourcing service. We can advise on the acquisition of pieces in all areas of the fine and decorative arts, assisting clients in their search for individual pieces or for a particular item. If you have queries regarding this or any intended purchase please contact us. All items can be delivered either by postal service or by trusted and fully insured couriers; we use both for the UK market and for overseas delivery. Please inquire by email or phone to obtain a quote for delivery options. Items are described as Excellent - A1 Condition no faults, Very Good - very good condition with only very minor cosmetic issues if atall and consistent with age, Good - in good overall condition with some ageing, marks and wear consistent with age.