Throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, there was constant travel to and trade with Asia. Vast quantities of goods were brought back to Europe, much of which has survived to this day, in particular the rare porcelainsfrom the Chinese kilns that were exported through Canton. European residents in India and China often commissioned furniture in the European style which accompanied the traders as curiosities when they returned home.
Increasing travel throughout the globe also spawned a fascinating subset of English made furniture, commonly referred to as “Campaign.” When the English and other Europeans traveled for extended periods to the East, to maintain the standards they enjoyed at home, they often commissioned special furniture to accompany them. These special pieces had to be easily transportable, take up minimal space in cargo holds and often have multiple functions. Specialist makers, including the Army & Navy Store, Morgan & Sanders, and Gillows developed a fascinating array of items that have survived and are highly collectable today.
Fine and Rare Pair of George III Silver Traveling Chambersticks (Brighton Buns) by William Sumner, 1811
Anglo Indian Silver Tankard
A Rare Set of Georgian Campaign Bookshelves
Height: 26 3/4 inches
Width: 41 1/2 inches
Depth: 8 3/4 inches