Original Lithograph - Rare Crab Style Lock
Alligator Embossed Metal Covering - New Tray
Circa 1890's
SOLD
this is a large size dome top trunk from about the 1890's that has a wonderful clean but medieval
look about it. It measures a well proportioned 34.5"L X 28"H X 19.5 "W which makes it a strong
looking trunk that sits up nice at 28" tall. The exterior is primarily an alligator pattern metal and it is
complimented with ornate cast hardware and metal buttons. The lock is unusual in that it is what is
called a crab style lock. I do not have the key at the moment but am working that way. As is, there is
no key. It will accept a padlock should no key be found. The oak or chestnut slats are quite nice,
made good and thick with grooves cut in for decoration. They took on a beautiful honey color which
is natural. The bottom of the trunk is perfect and the wheels firmly attached extending up the side of
the trunk. A repair was made to one of the unusual hinges but things work just fine.
The inside is a combination of old and new. The original paper covering was fairly tattered but I
decided it was appropriate for the trunk and it was retained. Also present is the original lithograph
with 3 scenes. The first is perhaps a mother quail with two small ones behind her. The second is of
a beautiful woman with a dreamy look. The 3rd is of a lake scene with a sail and rowboat among
others. In the rowboat a person is rowing while the other is fishing. Lithographs such as this were
often meant to remind the traveler of things back home while they were away. Of note***The door to
the lid compartment was missing so one is being made for it. At the time of the photo's things were
still a bit wet and it was not installed but there will be a drop down wood door on the right side of the
lid as well as a nice new tray with beveled edges and a birch bottom such as shown above.
It shows very well in person.