Specialists in antique and decorative furniture, based in Sussex.

White’s Antiques

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Unit 10 The Vinery, Arundel Road
Poling, West Sussex
United Kingdom
BN18 9PY
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19th Century English Naval Seaman's Chest in Original Paint, Circa 1830–1850
REF: WA143 / LA580898
£380
€444
$506
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LoveAntiques Dealersince Feb 2021Approved item909 sales by dealerFree Delivery
LoveAntiques Dealersince Feb 2021Approved item909 sales by dealerFree Delivery
Description
A superb early Victorian naval seaman's chest dating from circa 1830–1850, retaining its original painted finish, rope carrying handles, and authentic maritime character. Crafted in solid pine, this handsome chest offers excellent storage and timeless decorative appeal.
A handsome nineteenth-century English naval seaman's chest dating from circa 1830–1850, beautifully preserved in its original painted finish and retaining the honest character developed through generations of use. Constructed from solid pine, this authentic maritime chest is a wonderful example of practical early Victorian craftsmanship.
Originally made for sailors serving in the Royal Navy and merchant fleets, seamen's chests were designed to safely store clothing and personal belongings during long voyages. Their strong construction and practical design ensured they could withstand the demanding conditions of life at sea.
This example retains its original painted surface, displaying a beautifully aged patina together with the original hand-painted owner's name to the front. The traditional rope carrying handles remain in place, adding both authenticity and charm while reflecting the functional design of period naval furniture.
Simple, robust, and beautifully proportioned, the chest works equally well as a blanket box, coffee table, hallway storage chest, or statement piece within both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Untouched examples retaining their original finish are becoming increasingly difficult to find, making this an attractive piece for collectors of maritime antiques and lovers of honest country house furniture alike.
Details:
Origin: England
Date: Circa 1830–1850
Period: Early Victorian
Material: Solid pine
Features:
* Original painted finish
* Original hand-painted owner's name
* Original rope carrying handles
* Excellent storage capacity
Historical Note:
Throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, seamen's chests accompanied sailors on naval and merchant vessels around the world. Built for strength and practicality, they provided secure storage for clothing, tools, and personal possessions. Many were personalised with painted names or initials, making surviving examples with their original decoration particularly desirable today.
Styling Notes
* Ideal as a blanket chest or coffee table.
* Perfect for country house, coastal, and period interiors.
* A wonderful addition to any maritime or campaign furniture collection.
* Combines practical storage with genuine nineteenth-century character.
Delivery
Delivery is not included. Please use the Request Delivery Quote option before completing your purchase.
measurements
Height:
42 cm
Depth:
42 cm
Length:
100 cm
declaration
White’s Antiques has clarified that the 19th Century English Naval Seaman's Chest in Original Paint, Circa 1830–1850 (LA580898) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being circa 1850
condition
Good antique condition with authentic age-related wear, original painted surface, and a rich natural patina consistent with nearly two centuries of use.
additional info
Period:
Category:
Material:
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1850
location
This 19th Century English Naval Seaman's Chest in Original Paint, Circa 1830–1850 is located in United Kingdom
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