19th c. Mahogany and Bronze Blanket Chest Trunk c.1850
ABOUT
A 19th-century marine or campaign chest features durable two-tone wood construction and dovetail joinery. Crafted from rich mahogany, cherry and fragrant camphor wood used to protect contents from pests during long sea voyages. Built specifically to endure heavy travel by sea or military campaigns, it features heavy-duty bronze strap hinges, bronze handles and robust structural detailing designed to prevent damage during transit. A removable tray inside lifts out to reveal deeper storage underneath.
- CREATOR Unknown.
- DATE OF MANUFACTURE c1850-1890.
- MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Mahogany, Cherry, Camphor Wood, Bronze.
- CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use. No key. New chain added in the interior.
- DIMENSIONS H 18 in. x W 39.25 in. x D 21 in.
HISTORY
Camphor wood was the premium choice for travel trunks—especially maritime and campaign chests—for three critical reasons: Its a natural pest repellent. This scent aggressively repels moths, beetles, and silverfish. Moisture and mold resistance. Camphor is a dense, oily hardwood that naturally repels water. It resists mildew. warping, rotting, and mold growth in humid, salty ship hulls. Aromatic masking. The strong, clean, medicinal scent masked the damp, musty odors of long ocean transit. The distinctive, pleasant aroma can persist in the wood for centuries.
