How do I use a trunk at home?

These trunks work well as coffee tables in a living room or at the foot of a bed for extra blankets and linens. The hinged lids provide concealed storage while the aged leather and brass details add texture to an interior scheme.

How do I clean antique leather?

Dust the surface gently with a dry cloth and apply a specialist leather wax to nourish the dry hide. Avoid using modern chemical cleaners which can strip the historic patina and discolour the original finish.

Were all trunks made for travel?

Most examples served as functional luggage for coaches, ships and trains during the Georgian and Victorian eras. Some pieces were specifically ordered as country house storage or specialised containers for hats and cartridges.

How do I distinguish regional styles?

English coaching pieces typically display robust brass banding and iron reinforcement suited to carriage travel. China Trade examples frequently incorporate camphor wood and distinctive painted finishes made for export markets.