Small trunk

1837-1845

Measurements

9 in x 18-1/2 in x 10-1/2 in

Materials

Leather, animal hide; probably basswood

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3732

Condition Notes

Red leather trim has faded to brown in places and has frayed or been lost in other places.

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

Small trunks such as this may have held business papers but more likely contained clothing and personal items for travel.  Regardless, this one is attractively presented.  The wood case has hide covers outlined in strips of red-colored leather attached with brass-headed tacks.  The strips around the lock-plate have a sawtooth edge, adding more visual interest. The domed lid has a post-and-bail drawer pull that serves as a carrying handle.  The trunk stands on two lengthwise battens.

Inside, the trunk is lined with newspaper—a common practice in large and small trunks.  Newspapers include the front page of the Christian Advocate and Journal, published in New York and dated December 1, 1837.  Another advertised the work of Robert Lovett Jr., a stone seal engraver of Philadelphia.  A saddle, harness, and trunk maker from either city may have made this trunk.  Another very similar small trunk, likely by the same maker, is accession no. 1959.3733.