A remarkable collection of campaign furniture, which was used by gentleman travellers and army officers in the 19th century, is to be sold by Bonhams in its Period Design sale on 7 February 2012.
This portable furniture meant that the men did not have to leave their home comforts behind as they travelled or marched across Africa, America, Asia and Australasia. Desks, chests, dining tables and even four poster beds, which were broken down or folded up into boxes, were transported from camp to camp by horse, elephant or camel.
Highlights of the collection include a Victorian teak and brass bound secretaire chest (estimate £1,500 – 2,000); a late Victorian mahogany wash basin (estimate £800 – 1,200); a mid Victorian teak cabinet-on-chest (estimate £2,000 – 3,000); and a Regency mahogany ‘Imperial type’ extending dining table (£2,500 – 3,500).