English Military Chests
CHESTS military English
A superb example in which the secretaire folds down to reveal a line of three drawers on top, pigeon-holes with a central drawer below and a lift-up desk for maps and papers. Brass protects the corners and is also used as inlay as well as on the traditional folding handles. The paw feet presumably are easy to screw off if not this would defeat the whole object of the piece which, of course, comes in half and is provided with carrying handles. c. 1810
The military chest first came into use in the Napoleonic wars. Ideally it has no projections such as handles and is projected by metal fittings at all vulnerable points so that it can be loaded easily an early appreciation of containerisation. They are found in mahogany, padouk, cedar and camphor woods, i.e. solid strong woods, not pine or veneered as are some of the reproductions now being hugely reproduced as campaign furniture. Clearly the secretaire feature adds considerably to the value.
Another good example unusually well fitted inside. Made in cedar wood and with the usual brass edges and carrying handles. c. 1810
Moving down the ranks, this is more typical of the small secretaire type sometimes found in the form of a writing slope which opens out. Made by Day & Sons of The Strand it is very solidly constructed in cedar () with utilitarian handles and the minimum of brass work.
Early 19th century
A simple military chest in padouk with another style of folding brass handles. Again brass corners and carrying handles but the locks are of the ordinary variety. It now sits on a plinth made later. Perhaps it was brought home and used in retirement.
A collector’s specimen cabinet in maple, with spiral pillars at the sides, and a glass panelled door enclosing the twelve drawers. The carved decoration has a mask and leaf form over the door. Quite a remarkable specialist piece. c. 1860
An Edwardian Wellington chest, made by the celebrated firm of Edwards and Roberts, who have, as usual, used all the decorative motifs associated with Sheraton satinwood inlaid shells, ribbons, husks, etc., etc.
C. 1900
Tags: campaign furniture, Chests, desk, DRAWERS, English, example, furniture, inlay, mahogany, military english, napoleonic wars, secretaire, side, vulnerable points