Antique Flat Top Trunk Circa 1890's Refinished For Our Friend Toni June 2008

Toni sent these photos of a very large flat top trunk that belonged to her Grandparents. They are known to have immigrated to America from Sweden in the later 1800's. Whether this trunk made that initial trip or was purchased a little later is unknown. Toni said the trunk was painted about 20 years ago (they did a good job) but it had been in storage for a few years and she wished a different look with the wood exposed.  The last photo above is of the inside wood. When you see natural discolorations from moisture such as this on the inside, often you can expect a good deal more on the outside under the metal.  No damage, just the slightest bit of moisture will do this over 100 years time. I personally like the variation in color, others wish it more uniform through the use of stains. When presented to Toni, she agreed it looked fine and that will be our direction.

The above photo's were taken after a few of the metal panels were removed and some very aggressive sanding already performed. As in, you cannot get more aggressive. The first is of the top that shows the natural coloring that has occurred and the second of one of the sides which did not get as much moisture. The slats were just scuffed up at this time. Final sanding and the finish coats were still pending.

A close up, one side, and the back are shown above after the finish applied and hardware painted. I got the trim looking fairly much like leather and it looks nice with the black contrasting. Nothing wrong with the front other than I forgot to paint the bottom latches and reinstall, they are drying but a break sounded good. The trunk got bigger than me during the refinishing I think. I believe some straps, tray, and maybe some cedar inside are up next.

Cedar was installed up to the tray line and a tray built. On the tray shown outside drying, the edges and corners were beveled and I will install some lambskin tabs for lifters once dried. The remaining inside, such as the lid was simply refinished wood. When you open it, you get more of an authentic look and the cedar is hidden under the tray but still providing its aroma. Black straps were installed and using the original as templates, keepers were cut out of full thickness leather that is burgundy in color.  I like the subtle black and burgundy leather contrast,  hopefully, Toni will as well. Turned out to be a pretty nice antique trunk.

Back To Antique Trunk And Antique Chest Restoration