Rare 19th Century Georgian Red Painted Carriage Chest with Gilt Lettering & Iron Hinges

An exceptional and matchless Georgian carriage chest retaining its magnificent original red painted finish and gilt signwriting - a rare survivor of early 19th-century craftsmanship. Period: Georgian, early 19th century Origin: England Material: Painted pine with wrought-iron strap hinges and fittings Paintwork: Original red ground with gilt lettering “Est Ltd BoBon No.1 M” Condition: Timeworn surface with exceptional patina; structurally sound; retains early hardware and traces of original leather strap positions Rarity: Highly unusual to find in such original condition with legible gilded signwriting Dimensions: H: 43cm (16.9") × W: 97cm (38.2") × D: 43cm (16.9") Delivery: Delivery is not included. Please use the Request Delivery Quote feature before completing your order Heritage, Craftsmanship & Timeless Georgian Utility Discover a remarkable survival of Georgian transport craftsmanship - a red-painted carriage or wagon chest, once secured to the rear of a coach for travel. Its robust timber body is reinforced by hand-forged iron strapwork, while the lid still bears its gilt signwriting, ingeniously positioned so that the lettering reads correctly when opened. This intelligent detail, along with the deep patination of age, speaks to the enduring skill of 19th-century makers who balanced utility with understated elegance. The traces of worn leather fastening points and the unspoiled, dry surface tell the story of centuries of use and careful preservation. Few examples of such carriage chests survive, making this piece especially desirable for both serious collectors and those seeking authentic statement décor. Historical Note Produced in the early 1800s, such travelling chests were essential equipment for horse-drawn carriages - used to store personal belongings, tools, or supplies during long journeys. Each was individually crafted, often painted with identifying numbers or ownership marks. The BoBon No.1 M inscription is typical of the period’s hand-lettered signage, painted in gilt pigment over a red oxide base - a palette favoured for visibility and longevity. Its survival in situ today marks this as an outstanding relic of early English transport design. Desirability Exceptionally rare example of an original painted carriage chest Retains its authentic surface and gilt signwriting - highly collectable Represents early 19th-century travel craftsmanship and design ingenuity Perfect for collectors of vernacular antiques, Georgian transport history, or painted furniture Offers strong decorative appeal for design-savvy interiors seeking warmth and authenticity Investment-quality piece - increasingly scarce on the open market The Heart Behind the Finish - History in Every Hue The surviving paintwork embodies the layered beauty of time - the red background  has oxidised into earthy crimson, the gilding has worn to soft ochre tones. Its surface has been sensitively conserved rather than restored, preserving the tactile evidence of history. The ironwork, once purely functional, now contributes sculptural contrast against the muted paint, while the natural fissures and abrasions trace generations of honest use. Explore Every Facet Our detailed photographs form part of the condition report, offering complete transparency and encouraging close appreciation of each feature - the faded signwriting, aged timber grain, forged ironwork, and remarkable texture developed over two centuries. Styling Suggestions Statement Storage: Ideal beneath a console or at the foot of a bed for linen or seasonal storage Sculptural Accent: Perfect in hallways or loft interiors as a conversation piece with provenance Collector’s Display: Works beautifully in libraries or studies among campaign or travel pieces Retail / Gallery Use: As a visual anchor for curated displays highlighting craftsmanship and age Sustainable Style Thank you for considering antique painted furniture. Each acquisition supports the continued practice of restoration - preserving artistry, conserving resources, and celebrating traditional skills over mass-production. By valuing historic pieces such as this, you help sustain the rare skills of craftspeople dedicated to ensuring these exceptional survivals endure for future generations. Purchase with Confidence Trusted Heritage &Transparent Condition Details: When you purchase from White’s Antiques, you are not simply acquiring an antique item - you are embracing history.  Every item is described with care and photographed in detail to ensure complete transparency.  We are an established and successful business serving both trade and private collectors.  You are warmly invited to visit our shop at 53 High Street, Arundel, and our Showroom at The Vinery,  Poling, West Sussex to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the rich history behind each antique and witness these timeless treasures in person. Delivery: We do not include delivery in our prices, as this depends on factors such as location and access. Options include: Arrange your own collection from our address Use the Request Delivery Quote feature on the listing Email us for combined delivery quotes if purchasing multiple items Use Proovia Delivery, who provide a two‑person service Export/Worldwide Shipping for Tailored Quotes: Please contact any of the following for tailored quotes: Hordern’s Removals:  hordernsremovals@gmail.com Charlie Godwin:          guildford@packsend.co.uk Alan Smith Europe:    info@alansmitheurope.com Simon Hall Limited:   exportdesk@simonhalllimited.com