Posted 10 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.