Storage trunk - Wood, Zinc






Holds a bachelor's degree in history of art and architecture, with 12 years of experience in decorative arts.
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Colonial or military transport chest made of conifer wood with an exposed dovetail construction, featuring a zinc-lined interior that is largely intact but with a significant tear on one side, dating to 1970–1980 and measuring 139.5 cm wide, 68.5 cm high and 79 cm deep, originating from Toscana, Italy, in good used condition with signs of age and staining and retaining its original handles, locks and hinges.
Description from the seller
Colonial or military-era transport chest, made from softwood (likely pine) with exposed angular dovetail joints. The hinged lid is reinforced by original crosspieces and features a front inset metal lock.
The interior is entirely lined with welded zinc sheets, a construction technique used to protect the contents (often uniforms, furs or documents) from moisture and attacks by wood-boring insects during long sea voyages or in tropical climates.
Condition Report:
The item is presented in its original found state.
Wood: Structurally sound, with a natural patina of age. Clearly visible signs of use, scratches, and period woodworm holes (conservation treatment recommended).
Interior: The zinc lining is intact for about 80%, but shows a significant tear on one of the side walls (as in the detail photo) and widespread deposits of white oxidation (zinc carbonate) typical of old metal exposed to air.
Hardware: Original side handles present and functional. Locks present with keys. Original hinges with slight resistance due to age.
Recommended use:
A piece with great character for interior design projects. Ideal as a low coffee table or decorative element in a rustic/industrial setting after a light conservation cleaning.
Seller's Story
Colonial or military-era transport chest, made from softwood (likely pine) with exposed angular dovetail joints. The hinged lid is reinforced by original crosspieces and features a front inset metal lock.
The interior is entirely lined with welded zinc sheets, a construction technique used to protect the contents (often uniforms, furs or documents) from moisture and attacks by wood-boring insects during long sea voyages or in tropical climates.
Condition Report:
The item is presented in its original found state.
Wood: Structurally sound, with a natural patina of age. Clearly visible signs of use, scratches, and period woodworm holes (conservation treatment recommended).
Interior: The zinc lining is intact for about 80%, but shows a significant tear on one of the side walls (as in the detail photo) and widespread deposits of white oxidation (zinc carbonate) typical of old metal exposed to air.
Hardware: Original side handles present and functional. Locks present with keys. Original hinges with slight resistance due to age.
Recommended use:
A piece with great character for interior design projects. Ideal as a low coffee table or decorative element in a rustic/industrial setting after a light conservation cleaning.
