Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this piece to the 1800s.
As it features a lockable brass-sliding bar and clasp with side carrying handles, the chest would have been used for carrying and storing tea and other foodstuffs in the South Seas. During the early 19th century, tea was an extremely valuable commodity, which had to be locked away.
The one-piece chest features a decorative front, which is adorned with patterned brass corner mounts and bindings, along with a central row of large brass panel hinges, each engraved with Chinese characters. The large hinges support the front top panel of the chest when opened.
The top of the chest features two brass drop handles with shaped escutcheons. There is a third brass drop handle at the base of the chest for decorative purposes. The perimeter of the front is decorated with brass studs. The lid is secured in place by a large central brass-locking clasp and sliding pin. The sides of the chest feature the bass carrying handles, allowing the item to be shipped, whilst on campaigns.
The front top panel opens up to reveal an open interior. There are three small elm lined drawers to the top of the chest, which feature the original brass engraved handles. The interior still retails the original blue sugar paper. Sugar paper, imported from the colonies, was used to line furniture during the Regency and William IV period for hygienic reasons. The chest stands on its original bracket plinth feet. There is a stunning grain configuration to the front and sides of the chest.
Provenance:
This campaign chest would have been commissioned for a wealthy individual or military officer during the early 19th century. Although constructed from top quality solid English elm, this piece was most likely built in the Far East, having been sourced from Singapore and with Chinese character engravings. As it features a lockable brass-sliding bar and clasp with side carrying handles, the chest would have been used for carrying and storing tea and other foodstuffs in the South Seas.
Condition Report:
This elm chest is in good original condition, which is commensurate with its age. Nominal old use marks to the top and leading edges but nothing significant considering the age of the item. The chest boasts all its original brassware, including the locking clasp and bar. The interior also retains its original blue sugar paper. Please note, if you wanted the sugar paper lining replacing with new clean sugar paper, this work can be undertaken. The chest boasts the original bracket plinth and back.
Dimensions:
Height = 95.4cm or 37½” or 3ft 1½”
Width (plinth) = 102.6cm or 40” or 3ft 4”
Depth = 47.3cm or 18” or 1ft 6”
Free UK Delivery*:
We offer free delivery to mainland England, Wales, and Southern Scotland (anywhere south of Stirling). *We do not offer free delivery to locations north of Stirling in Scotland, Northern Ireland, or any British Islands off the mainland; for example, the Isle of Man, Isle of White and Channel Islands. If you live in one of the areas, please contact us for a delivery quote.
Free 14 Days UK Returns & Refunds:
A free 14-day “no quibble” returns policy (from the date you receive the item) is available if you are not happy with this item. We will collect the item free of charge from you (we do not charge a return fee / collection fee).
International Buyers:
If you live outside the UK and you would like to purchase this item, please contact us before purchasing it, so that we can obtain an accurate shipping quote and delivery lead-time.
Ref:Tea Chest 29
Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this piece to the 1800s.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Yolanda Gray Antiques Profile Page
Yolanda Gray Antiques is a registered member of LAPADA CINOA
Regency Colonial Elm Campaign Tea Chest (Circa 1820)
