Antique c.1850 Carved Camphor Campaign Chest Drawers w/ Secretary Desk - $1,500 (Lake Forest)

Antique c.1850 Carved Camphor Campaign Chest Drawers w/ Secretary Desk 1 thumbnail

condition: good

model name / number: Campaign Chest Secretary Desk

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This two-part campaign chest is made of a rich golden camphorwood offset by fluted edges and vertical front-corner edges that boast ornately carved foliage and Chinese longevity symbols. As with much camphorwood campaign furniture it is most likely China-Trade in origin. That is, made to the Western taste by Chinese cabinet makers in the ports of the Orient, for sale either to travelers on their way even further east, or simply for export. Camphorwood was the popular choice amongst customers as the strong smell of the camphor deterred insects, which would have been very appealing to the traveler. It is a large size with five long drawers, the largest actually being a dummy drawer-front hiding an integrated drop-down secretary desk with three small drawers and multiple letter cubbies. The majority of Chinese-Export campaign chests had handles to the sides, suggesting that they were never offered with a packing case but were perhaps lashed with canvas for protection. The flush drawer handles are western in design but Chinese in manufacture, the backplates made of sheet-brass and have cast-brass bails.

Mid 19th century.

Original unrestored condition. Finish is in fair/good condition with expected visible wear and patina that would be expected for a non-restored antique piece of this age. All drawers function and have their original brass hardware except for one drawer that is missing its lock mechanism and the top drawer missing its brass keyhole plate. Chest comes apart into two separate (top/bottom) sections. Sold as-is...as pictured here. Please see all pictures here as they are part of the description.

45"H x 20.5"L x 44"W

Delivery available for a small fee.

post id: 7891668180

posted: 2025-10-27 16:57

updated: 2025-10-27 17:01

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Antique c.1850 Carved Camphor Campaign Chest Drawers w/ Secretary...

This two-part campaign chest is made of a rich golden camphorwood offset by fluted edges and vertical front-corner edges that boast ornately carved foliage and Chinese longevity symbols. As with...