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Sold for: £40
A mid-20th century carved camphor wood stepped lid blanket chest by the Shanghai Trading Company of Singapore. The chest is constructed from solid camphor wood, noted for its aromatic and insect-repellent properties, and features a distinctive tiered or stepped lid design where the central panel is raised above two flanking side panels. The exterior surfaces are decorated with elaborate hand-carved relief scenes depicting traditional Chinese junk ships at sea, figures in smaller rowing boats, and birds in flight. The chest is raised on short bracket feet and retains its original brass hardware, including an ornate butterfly-shaped latch plate and a three-piece horizontal bar lock comprising the main body, a sliding shackle, and a wedge-shaped key. The interior of the lid bears a circular purple ink stamp with a central square motif resembling a Chinese coin. The text on the stamp reads SHANGHAI TRADING COMPANY around the upper edge and 89 ORCHARD RD. SINGAPORE around the lower edge, with a Chinese character, possibly 永, visible above the central square. A modern metal stay has been fitted to the interior to support the lid.
Condition report:
The exterior lacquer finish shows surface wear consistent with domestic use, including light scratches, scuffs, and minor indentations (photo 2 and photo 4). The interior is clean and retains a strong camphor aroma (photo 11). The brass hardware is complete and functional, displaying a natural aged patina (photo 5 and photo 8). A modern metal lid stay is present and functional (photo 11).
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