Friday, February 11, 2011

Campaign Furniture's Timeless Style


Campaign chests have brass plates on the corners to avoid damage during transit.  They were often made in two pieces with brass side handles for easy carry.  Campaign Chest of Drawers in Teak from Michael Donaldson Antiques.

Originally commissioned in the late 1700's by military officers traveling to posts abroad, campaign furniture was designed to easily dismantlewithin minutes using a single screwdriver.  It was a status symbol amongst officers to see who could keep up with the latest styles at home.  Campaign furniture was often made near the posts so local materials, such as teak, were used giving the pieces an exotic flair.



This British Colonial Campaign Bench is of Caribbean origin and the legs unscrew.  Cane and canvas were popular seat materials in subtropical climates.  Available at Antiquario Villas and Cottages.

This British Campaign Teak Writing Desk is from India and has a leather writing surface, storage compartments and removable legs.  Available at T.C. Donobedian
Campaign furniture was also very popular with ship captains; the clean lines and wood and brass detailing have a nautical feel which is why I like seeing campaign furniture in houses by the ocean.

This Sea Captain's Campaign Secretarie is made of mahogany with side hinge doors so that the drawers do not fall out in rough waters.  Available at T.C. Donobedian
Although the original purpose of campaign furniture is from a bygone era, the style is still very popular and many companies are reproducing the look today.

Folding campaign chair from HB Home.
Asheworth Campaign Desk by Suzanne Kasler for Hickory Chair.

3 comments:

  1. Great post, Allison! Thanks for including Suzanne's Asheworth Campaign Desk.

    Best,
    Catherine at Suzanne Kasler Interiors

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  2. Thanks so much, Catherine! I love all of Suzanne's furniture!

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  3. i love campaign furniture I have only being collecting for the past few years , I have amassed a chaise/sofa a washstand a teak secretaire,and many writing boxes & camphor trunks ,all made of stunning quality this stuff is wonderfully made and does what it says on the box , great for moving house and looks stunning looks like Mr lauren is going to have revival soon , but you cant beat the real thing. lovely blog keep up the good work

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