Sold 26 November 2025 · Willows Antiques and Interiors

This “Chinese Export Leather and Brass Bound Trunk” found a buyer.

It was listed by Willows Antiques and Interiors. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.

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Chinese Export Chest Chinese Painted Chest Decorative Leather Box Ask the dealer for something similar

Description

Chinese export leather and brass bound painted trunk.

Circa 1850.

Overall very good condition, two locks - one not original. No key.

Physical Dimensions

Height

39.5cm (15.55")

Width

91cm (35.83")

Depth

46cm (18.11")

Declaration

Willows Antiques and Interiors has dated this Chinese Export Leather Trunk to the 1850s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1179057

Dealers Notes

OPENING HOURS:

Tuesday 10am - 3pm

Wednesday 10am - 3pm

Thursday 10am - 3pm

Friday 10am - 3pm

Saturday 10am - 4pm

Other times including weekends & evenings, are available by appointment.

Description

Chinese export leather and brass bound painted trunk.

Circa 1850.

Overall very good condition, two locks - one not original. No key.

Physical Dimensions

Height

39.5cm (15.55")

Width

91cm (35.83")

Depth

46cm (18.11")

Date of Manufacture

Willows Antiques and Interiors has dated this Chinese Export Leather Trunk to the 1850s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Ref

SA1179057

About the Dealer

Willows Antiques and Interiors

Sellingantiques verified Since May 2022

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Willows Antiques and Interiors Profile Page

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An antique rectangular Chinese export leather trunk featuring a red base with intricate floral painted details and dark brass binding.

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Chinese Export Leather and Brass Bound Trunk

Archive II

An antique rectangular Chinese export leather trunk featuring a red base with intricate floral painted details and dark brass binding. View II

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An antique rectangular Chinese export leather trunk featuring a red base with intricate floral painted details and dark brass binding. View IV

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An antique rectangular Chinese export leather trunk featuring a red base with intricate floral painted details and dark brass binding. View V

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An antique rectangular Chinese export leather trunk featuring a red base with intricate floral painted details and dark brass binding. View VI

Archive VII

Willows Antiques and Interiors

Telephone 07748 520861

Location

317 Lillie Road
London
SW6 7LL
United Kingdom

Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/willows

Verified Since May 2022

Items For Sale 26

Items Sold 276

Email Willows Antiques and Interiors

Chinese export leather and brass bound trunk

Ref: SA1179057

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Cataloguer’s Note

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectTrunks and Chests
Period19th century
StyleChinese Export
MaterialLeather, Brass, Wood
ColourRed
MotifsFloral scrollwork, Brass studding, Metal edge binding
SizeH 39.5 cm (16 in) x W 91 cm (36 in) x D 46 cm (18 in)

FAQs

Chinese export leather trunks are storage chests produced in China primarily for Western markets during the Qing dynasty and later periods, often featuring traditional motifs and robust construction designed for international trade and travel.

These trunks typically incorporate a wooden carcase covered in lacquered or painted leather, secured with brass studs, metal bindings, and fitted with traditional Chinese hardware and lock plates.

Authenticity is determined by examining the patina of the leather, the hand-forged nature of the brass hardware, traditional joinery methods beneath the covering, and the style of the hand-painted or embossed ornamentation.

A leather trunk functions effectively as a coffee table in a living room or at the foot of a bed, adding texture, historical contrast, and concealed storage to modern spaces.

Preservation requires keeping the item away from direct sunlight and heat sources, avoiding harsh chemical cleaners, and occasionally applying a specialist museum-grade micro-crystalline wax to protect the leather and metal elements.