Mid-19th Century Teak and Brass bound Campaign Writing Box

Object Description

A large and very sophisticated mid-19th Century Teak and Brass bound Campaign Writing Box with a fully fitted interior. When opened there is a drop down folio holder with a tole ware day by day note holder in two parts flanking the original red ribbon letter holders, the main body with three replacement brass lidded ink pots, the gilt tooled royal blue leather lined flaps opening to reveal a false spring loaded front which is released to show three secret small drawers to the frieze, the other flap opening to show a void for stationery etc.
The Teak case is fitted with brass straps, corners and carrying handles as well as a brass plaque to the top and a brass escutcheon plate to the front. The lock and key both work.
Circa. 1845
H: 7.5”,19 cms, W:24 ”,61 cms, D:12.5 ”,32 cms.

Object History

Teak is a hardwood found at the time when this box was made on the Indian sub-continent which of course was part of the British Empire with locks, keys etc. being available there having been imported from the UK. It is very possible that this Teak Box was made in India but the dovetailing on the drawers is so fine that we are confident that the maker was a fully UK trained cabinetmaker possibly working for one of the garrisons or regiments. The drawer shown in the image of the dovetailing measures only 1.25″ x 1.75″ (3 cms x 4.5 cms).

Object Condition

Very good. Marks and wear consistent with age and use. Full condition report available upon request.

Object Details