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Description
I have been reading and after many hours of research online, I finally discovered a trunk almost EXACTLY like this one. It was dated late 1700's to early 1800's.
The name on the bottom has been difficult to decipher. The ink has been almost removed after so many years of use. We feel like it says "Edmonds X. _______" ..we can't tell if the last name starts with an A or a C. The top right hand corner has what could be either numbers, or initials (H. Q.) I have been researching old text and written script from that era, and haven't had much luck. There's more writing underneath all the names, but I'm afraid it's just not clear enough to me to read.
The original hardware, with the exception of the hinges, is still intact. The inside is just a simple lining as far as I can tell. The skin is worn mostly, but there are a few places where you can see and feel the hairs that are still present on the hide.
Like I mentioned before, I bought this trunk with the intention of restoring it, but the more I've inspected it, the more I wanted it appraised before I touch it. I wouldn't want to do anything to take away from it's worth. Any information you can tell me about the age of this trunk, what it would be worth if I chose to sell it, information on these types of trunks, and possibly the script/lettering, etc. would be wonderful!
Thank you!
Category
Furniture
Medium
It's made out wood, pine, maybe? It's covered in what appears to be deerskin, with small tacks on the top in what used to be a decorative design.
Distinguishing marks
There's a name on the bottom of the trunk...I think it's the owner's name? The original hinges are missing, but aside from that, it still retains all the original hardware as far as I can tell.
Condition
Poor
Size and dimensions of this item
23.5in. long x 5in base and 4in to top of dome... around 9 inches in height.. x 11.5in wide
Date Period
Not sure. Maybe mid 1700's to early 1800's?
Weight
Not exactly sure...only a few pounds...not heavy at all!
History
I have been reading and after many hours of research online, I finally discovered a trunk almost EXACTLY like this one. I have no idea of the previous history. I found it in an old barn in Virginia. I have recently started refinishing trunks, and thought this one was interesting because of the size. When we got home and started really inspecting it, we found a name on the bottom in very old black ink and old script. I have heard that deerskin trunks are very hard to find nowadays. Any information you could provide would be wonderful!
eBay Auction Link
Price Paid (If known)
$20
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