Camden Antiques has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
Dimensions:
Width 91cms
Depth 46cms
Height 107cms
Provenance: This chest remained within the Pratt family for the duration of its life up until 2023.
Pratt, Samuel, Henry & Samuel Luke
London; upholders, invalid furniture and camp equipage manufacturers, cabinet makers & furniture dealers (fl.1813–78)
Samuel Pratt senior was listed as a ‘Trunk maker’ at 119 Holborn Hill (1815) and had another shop at 40 Holborn by 1819.
S. & T. Pratt, ‘Trunk Manufacturers’ were recorded at 123 New Bond Street and at 19 Cockspur Street (1832-46) and the firm later concentrated the business solely at the New Bond Street address. In September 1822, Samuel was awarded a patent for ‘the certain improved straps or bands, to be used for securing luggage upon chaises or coaches’.
Henry was listed as ‘patent travelling wardrobe, portmanteau & camp equipment manufacturer’ at 19 Cockspur Street and 123 New Bond Street (1852), whilst Samuel Pratt jnr. was listed separately as an ‘importer of ancient furniture & armour’ at the New Bond Street address (1840s); and as ‘cabinet maker and importer of antique furniture’ (1852); and ‘antique furniture dealer’ in 1860 & 1870.
Henry Joseph Pratt (trunk maker) at 123 New Bond Street’ was declared bankrupt in May 1855 and this may have led to him leaving the partnership because he is recorded as the manager of the ‘Gallery of Antiquities and Ancient Furniture’ of Samuel Clare in 1859.
Camden Antiques has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Camden Antiques Profile Page
Victorian Secretaire Military Chest by H Pratt of New Bond Street, London
