Victorian Iron-bound Oak Silver Chest, Bond Street Silversmith Retailer

A compact yet highly characterful late-19th-century Victorian iron-bound oak silver chest, retaining its original iron strapwork, corner mounts, and drop handles. This chest is a classic example of a purpose-made valuables or silver storage trunk, combining robust construction with strong decorative appeal. Circa Mid 19th c Made in solid oak and reinforced throughout with iron mounts, the chest features a hinged lid opening to reveal a fully compartmentalised interior, lined in later replacement red baize, fitted in keeping with the original specification. The internal divisions and leather lifting straps remain, allowing for both practical storage and visual impact when opened. The exterior displays a rich, warm patina developed through use, with honest wear that enhances its authenticity. The scale makes it particularly versatile, lending itself well to use as a coffee table, hall chest, bedside trunk, or hospitality interior feature, while retaining genuine historic function. Made by Vander & Hedges, 26 Bond Street, London - Vander & Hedges, London silversmiths and retailers. Background. It’s thought that this company was established in 1812 by the descendants of Etienne de Tessier, a Huguenot refugee who arrived in England in 1712. It was listed in an 1841 directory as Griffin & Tessier, goldsmiths and silversmiths, at 32 South Audley Street. Partners, Louis (Lewis) and Alexander Tessier (c.1795-after 1861), advertised in 1851 as Louis Tessier & Sons, active as artists in hair mourning jewellery at 32 Conduit Street and 32 South Audley Street. After the retirement of L.A. Tessier (1857) the business was managed by his sons Henry Thomas Louis Tessier (1816-1891) and Edward Tessier, a partnership which was dissolved in 1869. H.T.L. Tessier continued the business at 32 South Audley Street while Edward Tessier maintained the business at 26 New Bond Street. Vander & Hedges. When Edward Tessier died in 1875 the business was sold to John Gotlieu Vander and John Hedges who continued the activity as E. Tessier and/or Vander & Hedges. After the dissolution of the partnership with Hedges (1900) Vander continued the business until his death (1910) A striking and usable Victorian storage piece with excellent presence and decorative integrity. Good antique condition overall, with wear, marks, and patina consistent with age and use. The baize lining is a later replacement, sympathetically carried out. Original ironwork, handles, hinges, and internal divisions. Structurally sound.