Posted 9 years ago
tellcheryl
(3 items)
This trunk has been in our family for years, but the history has been forgotten. 1853 is painted on the front. Edges are dove-tailed, handles are hand forged iron, as are the nails and straps around the trunk. Anyone seen a similar trunk? I'd like to know the origin of this style of trunk and possible value. Thanks!
Has the ear-marks of a seaman's chest. Does the top have an overhanging lip ?
A seaman's chest - hadn't considered that! The top fits exactly on the base. There is an iron key box/locking mechanism (about 4 in by 5 in) visible on the inside, just a keyhole on the outside. The key is missing.
Seamen's chest have the lid mortised to the chest in such a way that water splashed on top doesn't run inside. You can post 2 more pix.. I'm interested in the other writing that I can't quite read.
What about an immigrant's trunk? Not seeing any US made trunks with the same details.
What are the dimensions ?
Just noticed the added pic. Germanic or Lowland blue-blood by the small "v" in "von". of course a lot of pretenders were around when they left home !
47" x 23" x 23"
I appreciate your insight- thank you!
A bit big for a usual seaman's chest . Nice chest though. Must have been a poor blue-blood too. LOL !
Yes. Hi I have a similar chest. Although mine is more ornate, I believe the construction is very similar. Beautiful piece!
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/169228-domed-immigrant-trunk-w-excellent-forge
BHock45, thanks for linking your chest- it IS quite similar in design but yours has quite a bit or detail. The scrolled iron is really gorgeous.