Antique Campaign Chest by Peter McCarthy & Son

A number of features of this walnut antique campaign chest make it stand out from the majority seen, as you might expect given Limerick rather than London was its place of manufacture.

The walnut was probably imported and is very similar to mahogany. Added to this Peter McCarthy & Son did not specialize in campaign furniture but were general cabinet makers, as their label illustrates. The chest has a slight over hang to the top and base board as well as a subtle, decorative groove cut into the top edge of the chest. The flush handle also stands out as a design we haven't seen before with a serpentine shape to the inside top of the back plate. The drawer linings are made of deal and the top section has 4 lugs that fit to holes to the bottom section to prevent the 2 parts from moving when set up. The removable, turned feet have been replaced but are correct for the period.

More can be read on McCarthys in Makers but it is clear that they are cabinet makers who built an enviable reputation. However, it is unclear if they made a line of campaign furniture or if this interesting chest was a bespoke piece. From the business's slight name changes, first to incorporate one and then the second son, this chest can be dated to between 1870 and 1879.