Small trunk

1830-1850

Measurements

6-1/2 in x 12 in x 7-1/4 in

Materials

Leather, animal hide; probably basswood

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3733

Condition Notes

The paper lining inside the trunk has been removed and the interior stained a dark brown.  Some strips of leather along the edges of the hide coverings have been lost along with the brass tacks holding them in place.

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

This small trunk is sufficiently like another (accession no. 1959.3732), which retains original newspaper linings, to identify its time and place of fabrication based on those linings.  Salient features that tie the two trunks together include the colorful hide coverings, the red leather and brass tack strapping, the arced decorative strap below the iron lock (which is angled on the other trunk), and the presence of sawtooth-cut fringe on that decorative arc.  Like many other small trunks, both use a brass post-and-bail drawer pull at the top to serve as a carrying handle in addition to a means of lifting the lid.  And as usual, the small trunk stands on two lengthwise battens nailed to the bottom.