Trunk

Date1760-1780

Artist/Maker Edward Smith

MediumSpruce, elm, (both by microsocpic id), leather, brass, iron, and paper

DimensionsOW: 19 3/4"; OH: 7"; OD: 10 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1977-365

DescriptionRectangular leather covered trunk ornamented with brass nails around all edges; hinged lid with brass bail and rosette handle in center; two iron hasps secure lid to trunk; interior of trunk covered in paper printed with blue serpentine folliate vines around five-petaled flowers in groups of three on blue dotted background; printed label of Edward Smith, Trunk & Plate Case maker adhered to inside center of lid; edges of label have been cut in decorative shapes.
Label TextThis simple leather document box has a brass plaque on its top that reads "Robert Henson, Esqr." An inscription on the underside of the box points to a man of that name of Bainton, Stamford, as the owner. This may be Robert Henson (1858-1817) of Bainton (four miles from Stamford), who included personal bequests in his will to his children of a diamond brooch, a tortoiseshell snuffbox, a gold watch chain, a gold enameled watch, and a silver snuff box. Leather boxes of this type could be used to store documents or other valuable personal property.
InscribedRobt Henson Es../ Bainton/ Stamford" in ink on underside of bottom board.
MarkingsMaker's label inside of lid reads:
"Edward Smith / TRUNK & PLATE-CASE-MAKER, / to his Majesty / and his Royal Highness ye Prince of Wales / at ye King's-Arms & Three Trunks, / at Charing Cross". Label has been cut with a decorative scrolled edge and lacks a printed border.
Brass plaque under handle on top reads: "Robt. Henson Esqr."
Iron hasps on front are marked on faces: "MH" (or if upside down, "HW") (proper right hasp), "E*R.."(proper left hasp).

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