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English Chatham & Wilkes Faux Bois Steel Steamer Trunk J & E Bates Brass Latch

$2,750
£2,086.64
€2,385.88
CA$3,841
A$4,270.67
CHF 2,229.91
MX$51,984.50
NOK 28,452.69
SEK 26,658.81
DKK 17,806.28
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About the Item

This Edwardian cold rolled annealed steel travel steamer trunk was made in Wolverhampton England by Chatham & Wilkes. The trunk has been decorated in a faux bois pattern with beautiful graining. The domed lid has a raised rectangular section at the center bearing a series of riveted knobs intended to protect the surface if stacked with other trunks while in transit. Each of the four knobs on the raised section features a decorative escutcheon. There are a series of riveted knobs at both ends designed to prevent damage if the trunk is stored/transported vertically. The ends of the trunk are also equipped with large fold-down metal handles so the piece can be moved easily from place to place. The underside of the trunk has not been painted. The inside of the trunk was designed with a separate shallow compartment beneath the lid which is nicely sized to store documents or valuables one does not wish to leave inside the primary storage area. The compartment is accessed by turning an open ring-form latch attached to the roof of the trunk and lowering a long flat section of hinged metal that forms the compartment's floor. The compartment may be closed by lifting the hinged floor back into place and turning the latch. The latch can be further secured with a small padlock to prevent easy access. The front of the trunk is fitted with a hinged brass latch reading "E. Bates W. Hampton". E. Bates was Edward Bates, brother to Joseph Bates and partner in J & E Bates & Sons Ltd. - Wolverhampton-based makers of locks, latches, and keys. It also carries the Bates company mark: a piece of rope twisted into a pretzel-shaped knot. The lower part of the latch bears the Chatham & Wilkes mark reading "Chatham & Wilkes & Co Japanners Wolverhampton". The latch is stamped with British Registration Number "RD 41308" corresponding to 1903. The trunk's interior retains its original soft pink paint which complements the rich brown faux bois finish on the exterior. It also bears the original British Registration Number label reading "Rd. No. 66733" corresponding to 1919. As seen in the accompanying photos the interior is clean with normal signs of light use including minor marks and paint loss. The trunk is in good condition and is structurally sound. The hinged lid and internal lid supports are fully functional, as is the latch securing the separate internal storage compartment. As an antique, the piece shows signs of general wear including paint loss, dents, and other marks/scratches that are noted for accuracy. The original key is not present. The trunk weighs 30.5 lbs. This unusual antique English faux bois steel steamer trunk displays very well and can be used for storage or as a decorative accent. A terrific piece in great original condition.
  • Creator:
    Chatham & Wilkes (Manufacturer),J & E Bates & Sons (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 18.5 in (46.99 cm)Width: 27.5 in (69.85 cm)Depth: 18.5 in (46.99 cm)
  • Style:
    Edwardian (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Brass,Steel,Faux Bois,Japanned
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1910-1919
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1919
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
  • Seller Location:
    Cincinnati, OH
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 112607473 AK1stDibs: LU1191240466342

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