An early to mid-20th century heavy-duty travelling trunk of flat-topped construction, historically associated with the British Royal Navy dockyard in Singapore. The chest is constructed from a wooden body reinforced with horizontal wooden slats and bound with metal bands and rivets. It is fitted with heavy iron hardware including corner protectors, three front latches, and a central locking mechanism. The front of the trunk features a clear white stencilled inscription reading Mr. RICHARDS, INSPTR / SHPTS, NAVAL BASE, SINGAPORE. This identifies the original owner as an Inspector of Shipwrights at the Sembawang Naval Base, a senior technical civilian role within the Admiralty structure responsible for the maintenance and repair of the fleet. The interior is lined with original diamond-patterned paper in ochre and brown tones and retains wooden side supports for a missing upper tray.
Condition report:
The exterior metalwork shows heavy surface oxidation and rust throughout. The original outer covering, likely canvas or thin leather, exhibits substantial wear and loss. The wooden slats are weathered but appear structurally sound. The interior paper lining is largely intact but shows staining and minor tears consistent with age and maritime use. The central lock is present, but no key is included.
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