A Victorian brass-bound crocodile-skin covered travelling chest, mid-19th century

This lot contains endangered species. Sotheby’s recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid. For example, US regulations restrict or prohibit the import of certain items to protect wildlife conservation. Please note that Sotheby’s will not assist buyers with the shipment of this lot to the US. A buyer’s inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or sale cancellation.

This Thomas Handford travelling trunk, distinguished by its smart brass bindings and lock, was a popular model among the army and navy during the early nineteenth century. Handford and Son was a family business, with its oldest records dating back to 1797 when it operated as a Pocket Book Maker on Bond Street. From 1799, the business was located in the Strand. The trunk-making business was run by Thomas Handford, who partnered with his twin brother James, a maker of dressing cases, at their neighbouring stores on 6 Strand and 7 Strand.