Posted 11 years ago
seattle2ny
(1 item)
We received this antique domed trunk from my father-in-law who kept it in a bedroom for years untouched. It is in pristine condition. It used to be his mother's. We are unsure of the history. I've included a close up of the metal "brackets" that have "Palomar 1980" stamped on it. I've tried googling it to no avail. I'm pretty sure that this trunk was not made in 1980. Any help or information on this trunk would be appreciated.
You are misreading the stamp on the hardware -- it should read PATO (patented on) MAR (March) 15 (15th) 80 (1880)-- which would be a patent date of the slat clamp piece. You trunk was probably made a little later, around 1890 to 1910. It is a lovely example of a dome top trunk. Many were made during these years and most did not bear a maker's mark. If those slat pieces are cast iron as opposed to stamped metal then it is most likely from a late 1880's date. A great heirloom to have in your family -- thanks for the post!
You're right... it's cast iron not metal. I learned a lot from your comment. Thank you so much!
You are welcome -- I am always glad to see an early dome top trunk. There is a higher degree of quality in these including cast iron fingering on the edges, as well as that little leather lift piece over the lock (usually always missing). I am sure that there are nice compartments inside with some nice lithographs from the period. The fact that is has some family history makes it even better. Someone on this forum may know who made the hardware according to that patent date. (companies bought their hardware from a supplier and then assembled their trunks -- so the hardware usually did not belong to the trunk maker). They are unusual and very nice.
Need to get trophy's for you & Epson on trunk knowledge! Well, maybe T-shirts.
Wow. This is the only one I have ever seen that is in this brand new condition. I am just thrilled having never expected to see the just purchased view. It is like being transported in time. Thank you thank you.