Antique Campaign Chests also known as an Antique Military Chest was introduced in the late 18th Century during the Napoleonic wars. These classic chests were built by cabinet makers to dismantle, usually into two sections for ease of transportation. This was because soldiers camps would move around quite often and officers would use these chests to store clothes, valuables and military equipment safely away. Antique Campaign Chests will have brass carrying handles on the sides and also brass strapping for added stability as they did get knocked around quite a lot during travels. These lovely characterful antique chests would usually be in Camphor wood or Teak and quite often stamped by makers names. One of the renowned makers was Army & Navy CSL, which stands for The Army and Navy Co-operative Society Ltd from the Victorian period and they had stores worldwide, also selling other military equipment. These antique chest of drawers are full of charm and character and oozes a sense of history from their years of use, the original finish we merely clean up, keeping the original patina. Who knows what wars these chests have seen as the British Empire fought its cause around the world? Have a look at our chest of drawers category if you are interested in pieces like this as we add antique furniture to our website daily.
Campaign Chests for sale
Below are a few examples of previously sold Campaign chests but if any particular style looks of interest please let us know as we do get many similar designs in stock and we can try to locate something similar.
Genuine Victorian Teak Antique Military Chest / Campaign Chest. It consists of a two over three drawer configuration all of which are teak lined with original flush brass military handles. The piece stands on a moulded plinth with turned bun feet and has brass carrying handles on its sides.
Edwardian Mahogany Antique Campaign Chest, Dating from around 1900 and stamped ‘NO6 439’
Rare Teak Victorian Antique Campaign Chest / Deeds Box. It is simple and stylish in design but with the most spectacular, ornate brass Rococo handles. This antique chest would be the perfect hideaway for magazines and newspapers by the side of a chair whilst providing the ideal spot to place a pot of tea!
Related Reviews
- Philip and Luisa (Melbourne, Australia),
Hi James,Just a short email to say that the Chest of Drawers arrived safely today. My wife and I are very happy with the piece – better than expected! Thank you for your professional handling of the transaction. Will look out on your website for our future purchases. Regards, Philip and Luisa (Melbourne, Australia)
- Claire Weeks – Georgian painted chest of drawers,
My Georgian painted chest of drawers, was exactly as described, it arrived on time and looks perfect. Thank you
- Margaret,
Dear James Driscoll,The chest of drawers arrived Saturday morning – at 6.30 a.m.! It’s perfect, I’m delighted with it, thank you. I will definitely keep an eye on your website.Margaret