Brass campaign furniture is portable furniture designed for officers and travellers, distinguished by its brass corner mounts, straps and flush-sunk handles that protect the piece and allow it to be packed and moved without snagging. The term covers chests of drawers, writing desks, secretaire chests, bookcases, chairs, beds and washstands.
Campaign furniture was made in Britain from the late eighteenth century until the early twentieth century, when officers in the army and navy and colonial administrators needed furniture that could be carried across the Empire. The classic campaign chest is made in two sections that separate for transport, with removable bun feet, recessed brass handles and brass-bound corners. Makers such as Ross & Co. of Dublin, Hill & Millard and Army & Navy Co-operative Society supplied officers, and many pieces were made in mahogany, camphor wood or teak. Collectors look for good timber, original brass fittings, maker's labels and evidence of genuine use, while being cautious of modern reproductions and later embellishment with brass. The crisp lines and gleaming mounts of brass campaign furniture suit both traditional and contemporary interiors.
