Campaign Camphor Trunk 19th Century

Name: Campaign Camphor Trunk
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1210798
Price: 760 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Secure Transit

Cataloguer’s Note

Sustainable Choice

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectTrunks & Chests
Period19th century
StyleMilitary Campaign
MaterialCamphor Wood, Brass
ColourWarm Honey Brown
MotifsFlush carry handles, Corner brackets, Dovetail joints, Brass hasp and lockplate
SizeH 43 cm (17 in) x W 104 cm (41 in) x D 52 cm (20 in)

This campaign camphor trunk dates from 1890 and is designed in the military campaign style. The piece uses camphor wood with a warm honey brown colour and visible grain, finished with flush brass carry handles, corner brackets, and a central brass hasp with a lockplate. Exposed dovetail joinery runs down the corners, and brass bindings reinforce the edges. Signs of age include surface wear and scuffs across the timber. The chest measures 43 cm high by 104 cm wide and 52 cm deep. In a contemporary home, this trunk works well in a living room, study, or bedroom as a storage chest or low display surface. It places easily at the foot of a bed or beneath a window for blankets, linen, or books, while also serving as a side table or coffee table.

FAQs

Campaign trunks originated in the 18th and 19th centuries, designed specifically for British military officers and travellers needing durable, portable furniture during overseas deployments. Their construction allowed them to withstand rough transit while maintaining structural integrity.

These pieces are predominantly built from resilient timbers like camphor wood, teak, or mahogany. Camphor was favoured for maritime travel due to its natural pest-repellent oils, and chests were finished with flush-fitting brass or iron corner brackets and handles to prevent damage during movement.

Authentic campaign pieces feature flush-mounted hardware set flush into the timber so no parts protrude. Look for hand-cut dovetail joints, heavy brass corner strapping, carry handles recessed into the side panels, and the distinct aromatic aroma of camphor wood when opened.

A campaign trunk functions effectively as a central coffee table in a living room, at the foot of a bed for linens, or as entry hall storage. Its clean lines and functional hardware complement both modern industrial and classic traditional decor styles.

Maintain the finish by dusting with a soft cloth and applying a clear beeswax polish periodically along the wood grain. Keep the item away from direct heat sources and radiators to prevent timber shrinkage, and polish metal fittings gently without using harsh chemical abrasives.

Antiques Decorative

Campaign Camphor Trunk