catalog text
IRISH BRASS-MOUNTED MAHOGANY CAMPAIGN CHEST
Dublin, circa mid-19th century | top left drawer with original maker's stamp for Ross & Co of Dublin
Item # 404BHP26Z
A very nice military campaign chest of drawers in two parts by the Dublin maker Ross & Company. Typical of their work, it features shaped brass binding on the top of the chest and circular keyhole escutcheons.
The cabinet separates into two parts in the typical manner, the top being crafted to include a pair of side-by-side drawers over a single full width drawer, the bottom following the gentle graduation of the drawers to include two full-width drawers. The chest is raised over turned front feet, the back having been replaced with squared posts. The chest otherwise remains in very fine original condition throughout.
Note the fine surface patina preserved under layers of later shellac and waxes - scuffs, abrading and denting have oxidized to a lovely near-black hue and have since gathered a nice silky feel. The top left drawer is stamped by Ross [of 9, 10, 11 Ellis's Quay, Dublin].
A fine chest dating to the last quarter of the 19th century, it is a fine presentation, fully functional with well-conditioned drawers and an absolute joy to live with.
Measurements: 43 1/4" H x 19 5/8" D x 39 7/8" W
Condition Report:
Historical surface with wear, scuffing and scarring throughout; chipping to the edges (mostly where the upper and lower chest meet); blemishes have largely joined the surface in a fine overall patination under layers of wax; patch above top left drawer; back feet are replaced; original brasses and locks; no key and locks are untested; a very nice presentation.