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Sold for: £12
This lot comprises an empty transport chest constructed from a reddish-brown stained wood, possibly pine or a similar utility softwood. The rectangular chest features a hinged lid with stepped edges and a matching stepped base. The sides are fitted with two carved wooden bracket-style carrying handles. The interior is fully lined with a dull grey metal sheeting, likely zinc or galvanised steel, designed for the protection of sensitive items during sea transit.
The front rim is fitted with a recessed brass locking mechanism. The brass plate is stamped with a circular emblem above the words GOVT. U. P. H. CRAFTS and ALIGARH, with the number 75 to the right. Affixed to the interior of the lid is a printed and hand-inscribed paper label reading ON HIS MAJESTY’S SERVICE. FASTEN Envelope by gumming this Label across Flap OPEN by cutting Label instead of tearing Envelope. The hand-written section in ink identifies the recipient as J.L. HARRIS Esq. C.E. in C’s Dept. Admiralty. A printed code in the top margin reads Wt. 10596 750,000 7-41 W. R. & W. Ltd. 51-768, providing a likely date of July 1941.
Condition report:
The exterior wood displays significant signs of age and utility, including numerous surface scratches, scuffs, and several prominent circular water stains on the lid (photo 1). There is minor chipping to the wood at the corners and along the stepped base (photos 2 and 3). The interior metal lining shows oxidation, surface wear, and white spotting throughout (photo 4). The paper label is heavily discoloured and stained with some losses to the edges, though the text remains legible (photo 5). The lock is present; however, no key is provided.
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