British Colonial Rosewood Secretaire Chest of Drawers
Mid 19th centuryA British colonial campaign secretaire chest of drawers made of solid rosewood. The top drawer opens to reveal a secretaire interior, fitted with a black leather writing surface and three drawers, all drawers with a brass pull. It is also fitted with four pigeon holes and a compartment that can be locked. This top drawer features many secret compartments. The chest’s drawers are flanked by solid spirally turned pillars and can be opened using the original brass handles. The piece stands on four bun feet ending in a ring.
Campaign or “knock down” furniture was portable military furniture and used by British officers when they set out for a campaign in India. This piece consists of two parts for ease of transport. For that, the two pillars will also come loose. Because campaign furniture was extremely versatile, it also appealed to home owners who appreciated its elegance, strength and ease of storage.
The secretaire chest is in good condition and has been lovingly restored and finished to its former glory using a traditional form of French polishing and waxing. The Indian rosewood that this piece has been made off has a naturally occurring dark shade with a striking grain.
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This campaign secretaire chest of drawers has been sold. Please keep checking our website as we may add a similar piece.
Bombay
British colonial India
H: 110 cm W: 107 cm D: 47 cm
H: 43½” W: 42” D: 18½”
