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UAM Furniture and Antiques

May Auction

May Auction

Lot 755: Antique Victorian Camphor Wood and Brass-Bound Campaign Trunk

Live auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: £2

Buyer's Premium:

An antique campaign trunk constructed from solid camphor wood with brass reinforcements, dating from the late 19th century. The chest features a rectangular form with brass strapping to the lid and corners. Hardware includes flush-mounted brass carrying handles to the sides, a central brass pull handle, and an inset rectangular brass nameplate on the lid, which remains unengraved. A central brass escutcheon is fitted to the front. The interior is unfinished, displaying the characteristic swirling grain of the camphor wood, and retains a single open compartment with remains of original webbing lid supports. This style of furniture was traditionally utilised for maritime and military travel due to the natural insect-repellent properties of camphor wood.


Condition report:

The trunk is in fair to good antique condition. The lid shows multiple prominent circular water rings and scattered white paint or liquid splatters across the surface. There are various scuffs, scratches, and small indentations throughout the timber consistent with age and heavy use. The brass components exhibit a natural dark patina and some tarnishing. Internally, the wood shows light staining and the support straps are heavily worn or detached.

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