Victorian Camphor Wood Military Campaign Secretaire Chest

A fine and rare Victorian military campaign secretaire chest, dating from around 1840. Beautifully constructed from richly figured camphor wood, this piece was designed for use by British officers during overseas campaigns, most likely in colonial India or the East. Camphor wood was highly prized not only for its attractive grain and warm tone but also for its distinctive aromatic scent and natural resistance to insects, making it ideal for travel furniture. The chest is built in two sections, allowing for easier transportation—an essential feature of true campaign furniture. Its clean lines and solid construction are complemented by recessed brass campaign handles. At the top of the chest is a well-appointed secretaire compartment, concealed behind a fall-front panel that opens to reveal a new leather-lined writing surface hand dyed to create a soft olive green colour. The interior is fitted with a series of small drawers, pigeonholes for documents, and a central cupboard with a turned handle. Below the writing compartment are two short drawers above 2 full width drawers, each fitted with inset brass handles and brass escutcheons. This secretaire chest remains in excellent antique condition, there is however a slight warp in the top surface due to the nature of the wood.