Posted 10 years ago
PBear
(1 item)
I bought this trunk at auction and would love to know more about it. The condition isn't great but I think it has lots of charater. One of the leather straps has snapped, one of the metal fasenings is about to fall off, it seems to have a lot of scrates on it, there is paper inside which isn't up to much and a small compartment but no shelf. I'd like to restore it slightly but I don't want to take away the rustic feel. I was thinking about cleaning it up and treating the wood or getting a wax. I'm not too sure where to begin or how to do it though. Any advice would be greatly appreciated and if anyone has any idea of it's value in current or restored condition that would be great too.
Thank you!
You are the proud owner of a "Barrel Top" trunk circa 1880's. Looks like someone "shellacked" the whole thing many years ago and now it has become crusty and yellow. This can be removed with chemical paint stripper -- even on the leather. So some work ahead of you, or simply wash it down with a damp soapy cloth and keep "as is". Do a bit of research on trunk restoration before you do anything to make sure you have the right advice for your trunk. Thanks for the post and welcome to Collector's Weekly!
Thank you for the advice! I think I'll start with paint stripper and go from there :)
ps. Whatever you use always start with a test piece on the back of the trunk just in case.... and you are most welcome!
We have some real experts on restoring old trunks her on CyberAsylum/CW. They impress me repeatedly. Welcome! Listen & learn.
Looks like I've came to the right place! Would anyone have a rough idea on the value? Thanks.
PBear we do not do evaluations on this site -- some of that is due to location as prices vary... but it is policy of this site -- check out your local classifieds, there are usually comparables there to get a ball park figure. It is not a "rare" type or style or maker...