{"product_id":"camphor-wood-campaign-secretaire-chest-phelps","title":"Camphor Wood Campaign Secretaire Chest by Phelps Ltd., c.1890–1915","description":"\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"qveadi\" data-start=\"682\" data-end=\"1167\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eCamphor Wood Campaign Secretaire Chest by Phelps Ltd., c.1890–1915\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-section-id=\"qveadi\" data-start=\"682\" data-end=\"1167\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eA beautifully made camphor wood campaign secretaire chest by Phelps Ltd. of St. Margarets \u0026amp; Twickenham, dating from around 1890–1915. Constructed in two sections for transportation, it combines the practicality of campaign furniture with the refinement of a fitted writing desk. Retaining its original printed ivorine retailer's label, original key and finely preserved interior, it is an increasingly uncommon example of late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century cabinet making.\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1172\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ma7m6t\" data-start=\"1174\" data-end=\"1189\"\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1191\" data-end=\"1874\"\u003e• Camphor wood campaign secretaire chest by Phelps Ltd., St. Margarets \u0026amp; Twickenham\u003cbr data-start=\"1274\" data-end=\"1277\"\u003e• Circa 1890–1915\u003cbr data-start=\"1294\" data-end=\"1297\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e• Original printed ivorine Phelps Ltd. retailer's label inside the top drawer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1374\" data-end=\"1377\"\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eTwo-part\u003c\/strong\u003e campaign construction\u003cbr data-start=\"1409\" data-end=\"1412\"\u003e• Concealed secretaire drawer with original green baize writing surface\u003cbr data-start=\"1483\" data-end=\"1486\"\u003e• Fitted interior with pigeonholes and small drawers\u003cbr data-start=\"1538\" data-end=\"1541\"\u003e• Original brass carrying handles and recessed brass campaign fittings\u003cbr data-start=\"1611\" data-end=\"1614\"\u003e• Five graduating drawers with coach-lined fronts\u003cbr data-start=\"1663\" data-end=\"1666\"\u003e• Carved corner pilasters with decorative corbels\u003cbr data-start=\"1715\" data-end=\"1718\"\u003e• Original brass locks with original key (one lock with a broken bolt)\u003cbr data-start=\"1788\" data-end=\"1791\"\u003e• Raised on original turned bun feet\u003cbr data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"1830\"\u003e• Solid camphor wood construction throughout\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1876\" data-end=\"1879\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"rmw5tv\" data-start=\"1881\" data-end=\"1895\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1897\" data-end=\"2275\"\u003eThis camphor wood campaign secretaire chest is a refined example of campaign furniture, designed to provide practical storage while incorporating a fully fitted writing desk within its upper section. Built in two parts for ease of transport, it reflects the robust construction associated with campaign furniture while offering the quality expected for domestic or colonial use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2723\"\u003eThe secretaire drawer slides forward before folding down to reveal its original green baize writing surface, supported by substantial brass quadrant stays. Inside is a well-planned arrangement of pigeonholes and small drawers, each solidly made and fitted with original brass knobs. Unlike many fitted interiors, the internal drawers and divisions are notably substantial, reflecting the consistent quality of construction throughout the cabinet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2725\" data-end=\"3122\"\u003eBeautifully figured solid camphor wood has developed a warm, mellow colour over time, with broad flowing grain enhanced by careful cleaning and a light application of traditional beeswax polish. The wide solid timber top and side panels demonstrate the quality of the original materials, while the natural age-related shrinkage line to the top is entirely consistent with solid board construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3124\" data-end=\"3484\"\u003eThe original brass carrying handles remain fitted to both sides, allowing the cabinet to be dismantled and transported as intended. Opening the upper drawer reveals the original printed ivorine Phelps Ltd. retailer's label reading \u003cstrong data-start=\"3364\" data-end=\"3425\"\u003e\"For High Class Furniture – St. Margarets and Twickenham\"\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing valuable provenance for this well-made cabinet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3486\" data-end=\"3739\"\u003eEven after more than a century, the camphor timber continues to release its distinctive natural fragrance, a characteristic that made camphor wood particularly desirable for protecting clothing, documents and personal possessions during extended travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3741\" data-end=\"3896\"\u003eEqually practical today as a chest of drawers, writing desk or statement cabinet, it offers generous storage, thoughtful design and enduring craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3898\" data-end=\"4029\"\u003eDiscover more portable furniture and travel-inspired designs within our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/campbellvintage.co.uk\/products\/camphor-wood-campaign-secretaire-chest-phelps\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3970\" data-end=\"3992\"\u003eCampaign Furniture\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/campbellvintage.co.uk\/collections\/antique-storage\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3997\" data-end=\"4016\"\u003eAntique Storage\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4031\" data-end=\"4264\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInterested in the history of campaign furniture? \u003c\/strong\u003eExplore the Campbell Vintage Journal to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/campbellvintage.co.uk\/blogs\/news\/camphor-wood-campaign-secretaire-chest-history\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elearn how campaign chests evolved\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003c\/a\u003e why camphor wood became the preferred material, and what makes well-preserved examples so sought after today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4266\" data-end=\"4269\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1vn257x\" data-start=\"4271\" data-end=\"4294\"\u003eDimensions (Approx.)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4296\" data-end=\"4311\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4296\" data-end=\"4307\"\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 121\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4313\" data-end=\"4327\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4313\" data-end=\"4323\"\u003eWidth:\u003c\/strong\u003e 115\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4329\" data-end=\"4343\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4329\" data-end=\"4339\"\u003eDepth:\u003c\/strong\u003e 52\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4345\" data-end=\"4348\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"10kmwe5\" data-start=\"4350\" data-end=\"4362\"\u003eMaterials\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4364\" data-end=\"4412\"\u003eSolid camphor wood with wide-board construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4414\" data-end=\"4494\"\u003eOriginal brass carrying handles, brass recessed furniture, locks, escutcheons and quadrant stays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4496\" data-end=\"4533\"\u003eOriginal green baize writing surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4535\" data-end=\"4593\"\u003eSolid timber fitted interior with pigeonholes and drawers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4595\" data-end=\"4630\"\u003eTraditional cabinet-making joinery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4632\" data-end=\"4635\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"hrykuu\" data-start=\"4637\" data-end=\"4649\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4651\" data-end=\"4720\"\u003ePresented in very good antique condition consistent with age and use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4722\" data-end=\"5352\"\u003eThe cabinet has been carefully cleaned, revealing the beautifully figured camphor timber while retaining its distinctive natural aroma. Honest surface wear, minor marks and a rich patina reflect more than a century of use. The original green baize writing surface displays expected wear, and the chest retains its original working key. All locks operate except one, where the internal bolt has broken. The solid top shows a natural shrinkage line together with a few small historic losses to the rear edge, behind one carved pilaster and a replaced internal shelf. Overall, the cabinet remains exceptionally solid, well preserved and ready for everyday use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5354\" data-end=\"5357\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"vl9257\" data-start=\"5359\" data-end=\"5377\"\u003eOrigin \/ Period\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5379\" data-end=\"5428\"\u003ePhelps Ltd., St. Margarets \u0026amp; Twickenham, England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5430\" data-end=\"5446\"\u003eCirca 1890–1915.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5448\" data-end=\"5451\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"qkxodk\" data-start=\"5453\" data-end=\"5475\"\u003eStyling Suggestions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5477\" data-end=\"5693\"\u003eIdeal as a writing desk, bedroom chest, study cabinet or hallway statement piece. Its restrained campaign design and warm camphor timber allow it to sit comfortably within both traditional and contemporary interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5695\" data-end=\"5698\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1hryhf7\" data-start=\"5700\" data-end=\"5706\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5708\" data-end=\"5747\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"5708\" data-end=\"5747\"\u003eIs this genuine campaign furniture?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5749\" data-end=\"5899\"\u003eYes. Its two-part construction, recessed brass carrying handles and portable design are all characteristic features of traditional campaign furniture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5901\" data-end=\"5940\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"5901\" data-end=\"5940\"\u003eDoes the secretaire still function?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5942\" data-end=\"6036\"\u003eYes. The writing drawer folds down to reveal its original fitted interior and writing surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6038\" data-end=\"6074\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"6038\" data-end=\"6074\"\u003eDoes it retain its original key?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6076\" data-end=\"6190\"\u003eYes. The original key is present. One lock has a broken internal bolt, while the remaining locks operate normally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"6192\" data-end=\"6195\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"4ibvq1\" data-start=\"6197\" data-end=\"6228\"\u003eWhy This Object Stands Apart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6230\" data-end=\"6670\"\u003eCombining solid camphor wood construction, a fully fitted secretaire, original printed ivorine Phelps Ltd. retailer's label, original key and a remarkably well-preserved interior, this chest offers a rare combination of provenance, craftsmanship and functionality. The continuing natural fragrance of the camphor timber and the survival of so many original features make it an increasingly scarce example of high-quality campaign furniture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Campbell Vintage","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57263118385527,"sku":"1002114","price":2800.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0476\/1459\/1133\/files\/DSCF6417_584a899d-6229-4005-af0a-5305177c222a.jpg?v=1783446448","url":"https:\/\/campbellvintage.co.uk\/products\/camphor-wood-campaign-secretaire-chest-phelps","provider":"Campbell Vintage","version":"1.0","type":"link"}