CHINA TRADE BRASS-MOUNTED CAMPHOR-WOOD CAMPAIGN CHEST OF DRAWERS
Circa 1840

44 1/8" H x 40 1/2" W x 19 1/2" D

A good mid-19th century British campaign chest, likely made in Canton for the export trade. Built in two parts in well-figured camphorwood with flush-mounted brass hardware and recessed side handles. The upper section with two short drawers over one long drawer, above a lower section of two graduated drawers. Both upper and lower cases feature flush-mounted side handles to move the chest and its contents. Typical of work associated with the craftsmen of China producing work for export to the British market, the upper case sits on the lower case with rectangular tenons that drop into fitted voids in the lower case; this is not generally the case with British or Anglo-Indian work, where round dowels are generally utilized. The drawers are outlined with fine line ebony inlay and fitted with original flush-mounted campaign pulls with a pierced diamond in the upper. The wood displays a rich, warm surface with expected wear from use. Raised on apparently original simple bracket feet.

Condition: Early surface, oxidized and overall matte, lovely overall patina. Extensive rubbing, wear and presence of use indicators throughout. Breakout on the sides and back from the shrinkage of the solid woods against the fore-aft interior drawer glides, this visible along the back edges primarily. Drawers a bit tight and rubbing a bit when moving in and out of the case, still perfectly functional. Apparently original hardware. No key.

ref. 503FTQ06W