Rare Naval Campaign Tea Safe/Chest

Campaign tea chests are rare, and this example which is clearly for naval use is exceptionally rare.  With three foil-lined tea compartments to the main section with a drawer beneath to hold accouterments, flush mounted campaign handles to the sides and brass strapping throughout.  This chest has the very rare addition of securing screws to each side to attach the case to a flat surface to deter movement in the case of rough seas or theft.  The locking mechanism is identical to the Naval Writing Box (170-131) also introduced on the site and was clearly the product of the same workshop, retaining the original key.

English or Scottish.  c.  1800

Provenance: Private Collection, Baltimore

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