Travel Trunk

[mcghee67]

Looking to find information on this trunk, it was brought over from Ireland to the USA in 1850 the lock is very ornate, can anybody tell me anything about it, I think the lock looks like a british redcoat from the American War Of Independence.

Many Thanks Jane

[mcghee67]

Looking to find information on this trunk, it was brought over from Ireland to the USA in 1850 the lock is very ornate, can anybody tell me anything about it, I think the lock looks like a british redcoat from the American War Of Independence.

Many Thanks Jane

[philipsearching]

My guess is 18th or early 19th century naval officer holding a telescope (but I could well be wrong!)

Philip

[Ruskie]

That trunk is rather lovely Jane. 

Knowing nothing about such things I turned to Mr Google, but don’t believe the style of jacket fits with your redcoat theory though he does appear to have some military epaulettes on his shoulders. Unusual jacket - long with two hem “layers”.  The hair style could indicate 1700/1800s fashion.

Philip could be right about the telescope - is he holding some kind of ring in the other hand?

[philipsearching]

Philip could be right about the telescope - is he holding some kind of ring in the other hand?

I was thinking a sword hilt.

[Ruskie]

Could well be a sword hilt. 

Do you know the history of the trunk Jane? Do you know who the original owner was, and his occupation? (Wondering if this may give any clues as to the reason for this particular escutcheon.)

It’s quite special. Very nice piece. 

Added: the area below the figure is puzzling me too .... I can’t work out if it is just decorative or if it is supposed to represent something.

[Ruskie]

I don’t suppose there are any marks (makers or otherwise) anywhere on the metal lock or elsewhere on the trunk?