A Large Victorian Sea Captain's Documents Box with radial edges reinforced with substantial recessed brass columns at each corner, side handles, straps, a large blank oval cartouche, and a shield escutcheon. It opens on a full length hinge displaying a mahogany lined interior consisting of a central tray separating two hidden drawers, one of which is divided into four compartments. Inside the lid, a false screw head is a button which releases the boxed panel allowing it to drop down into a red leather lined writing surface on the reverse. Another sprung button opens the boxed panel providing storage space for secret documents.
The box was supplied for use at sea by a ship's captain. It is fitted with a threaded rod on each side which can be screwed down to a stable surface using the fitted key, preventing it from shifting around at sea.
The working lock is stamped Chubbs Patent, 128 Queen Victoria Street, London, Makers to Her Majesty, with Chubb's 'Fish' Trade Mark. It engages at three points for extra security.
Weight 6.75 kg
Dimensions 44 x 26 x 14 cm
