A richly ornamented Zanzibar chest in teak featuring brass cladding, studwork, and detailed repoussé on all corner protectors. The front showcases unique design elements, including a large circular studded wheel integrated into the staple and a teardrop-shaped hasp.
Each side is fitted with ornate, heavy-duty handles (possibly later additions) and an ‘L’-shaped support strap. Signature repoussé detailing by the original artisan appears on the side corners. The top, crafted from two timber planks, displays a natural split from age-related shrinkage over time.
At first glance, a Zanzibar chest appears as an exquisite antique—its brass surface glowing with age, its intricate design hinting at tales untold. But these aren’t just decorative relics; they are cultural artifacts, born of centuries of global trade and steeped in meaning.
These beautiful chests, once essential to Swahili and Omani households, served not just as storage for dowries or precious items but as status symbols, crafted to last and designed to impress. Built from resilient tropical hardwoods like teak or camphor, many were originally made in Gujarat, India, and ferried across the Indian Ocean by Arab and Indian traders. To own a Zanzibar chest was to display wealth, spiritual awareness, and international connection.
Period: Late 19th century / Early 20th century
Material: Teak
Approximate Dimensions:
48cm high
100cm wide
45.5cm deep
Condition: As you can imagine, our products have had a life before we got them, been used and cherished by many others before we received them. Therefore, you will see signs of ageing, natural wear, fading & marks which create their unique look. Overall the condition is good and the condition is commensurate with its age. Unless specified ornaments or props shown are not included.
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Please note: the listed price is for the product only. Delivery costs are calculated at checkout.
Delivery Information:
- UK mainland delivery on average ranges from £10 to £45, some larger items can be £60.00. Everything is calculated based on item size.
- We’re based in Southsea, Portsmouth (PO5) and deliver nationwide.
- Free local delivery may be available depending on your location—please ask.
Delivery Coverage:
- We deliver to most areas and aim to offer the most efficient and cost-effective options.
- For addresses north of Newcastle, or in Wales, Scotland, Highlands, Ireland, or offshore islands, please contact us first to
confirm delivery availability and costs. - International shipping is available—contact us for a quote.
Delivery Method:
- Deliveries on average take approx. 5–10 working days, depending on location and order timing.
- We use trusted furniture carriers who specialise in antiques and delicate items for safe handling.
- Standard delivery is one-man, ground floor only. Assistance will be needed unless a two-man delivery is arranged at an extra cost.
Questions?
Contact us via phone +44 (0) 7973154860, text, WhatsApp or email with your full delivery postcode to confirm any additional charges.
We can ship to most places. We have the ability to to send consignments Internationally and they are all professionally wrapped, packed and or crated for a safe and successful journey.
There is going to be additional costs and lead times depending on various factors.
The best advice is to get a quote before you decide to purchase any item/s.
Listed in every product description are the dimensions for each product.
This information is provided so you can check if the piece you wish to buy will fit in your home.
Please double check your dimensions. One, to make sure it will fit through any doorway in to your home. Secondly, to make sure it fits in the space you want to place in it in. If in doubt, ring for help!
Any questions please get in touch, here to help.
If you would like to speak to someone before placing an order, check dimensions or have a general question, please call Mark on 07973 154860.
You can email mark (@) campbellvintage.co.uk
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Office Address: 71 Campbell Road, Southsea, PO5 1RJ. By appointment only to this address. Need to be booked in advance.
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Our products come with a guarantee stating they are as described when purchased.
As all our products are either antiques or vintage and have a life before we got them, we do not offer traditional warranties due to the nature of the items and history.
Please inspect the many images we provide online to be sure you want the item offered before purchasing.
The condition of each product is noted on all products in the main description. Please read this so you are clear on what you are buying.
If you have any questions however small beforehand and to give yourself peace of mind, please make contact. As we are very happy to discuss anything in greater detail.
One last thing! Please double check your dimensions. One, to make sure it will fit through any doorway in to your home. Secondly, to make sure it fits in the space you want to place in it in. If in doubt, ring for help!
Here to help.
We hope you will be happy with your purchase. If for any reason you are unhappy, you may return the item/items to us within 14 days. Please notify us within 14 days.
You will need to arrange for the safe return of any item or items purchased. Please ensure the goods are returned in the same condition as sent to you.
You will be responsible for all return cost.
Once we have received your return, we will refund you the cost of the item/items, less any initial delivery and packaging costs, within 14 days.
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