Identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
The item is an iron-bound wooden chest fitted with compartments, containing gilt-decorated glasses and medicinal bottles. A handwritten note claims it was captured during the Revolutionary War (1775-1783). However, one bottle is labeled 'Tinct. Iodidi' (Tincture of Iodine).
Story
The chest's iron strapwork and gilt glassware stylistically align with the late 18th to early 19th-century Georgian or Federal periods. A handwritten note claims Revolutionary War capture by a 'Capt. Jonathan Mason,' but the presence of a 'Tincture of Iodine' label (a substance not used medically until after 1811) indicates the contents were updated or assembled later. Without further genealogical or historical verification, the provenance remains anecdotal.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Pending exact photos, value depends heavily on the integrity of the iron strapwork, oak casing, and the completeness of the fitted interior. The presence of gilt-decorated glass decanters and labeled medicinal bottles is a strong positive.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Antique fitted boxes—particularly campaign, apothecary, and maritime liquor chests—have a dedicated collector base. Prices are highly stratified based on completeness (original bottles, stoppers, working locks) and verifiable provenance. While high-end retail galleries frequently ask $2,000+, auction realizations for unbranded or unverified examples typically cluster in the $400-$800 range.
▲ Hybrid functionality as both a liquor and apothecary chest increases crossover collector appeal.
▲ Presence of period gilt-decorated glassware and labeled medicinal bottles.
▲ Robust iron-bound oak construction typical of desirable maritime or campaign furniture.
▼ Anachronistic 'Tincture of Iodine' label undermines the strict Revolutionary War provenance claim.
▼ Unverified dimensions — a smaller-than-expected chest would command lower prices.
▼ Potential for hidden chips or replacement stoppers in the glassware.
Best Venue
List with a regional auction house specializing in maritime, militaria, or Americana (e.g., Eldred's or Thomaston Place). Prior to sale, research 'Capt. Jonathan Mason' in naval/military archives; verifying his existence and service dates could significantly elevate the lot's appeal, even if the iodine bottle is a later addition.
Upside Potential
If historical records can definitively link the chest to a documented 'Capt. Jonathan Mason' of the Revolutionary or War of 1812 eras, and the iodine bottle is explained as a later family addition, the value could shift into the $1,500-$2,000+ maritime provenance tier.
Authenticity Risk
mediumWhile the chest and glassware appear period-correct, the anachronistic 'Tincture of Iodine' label proves the set was assembled or restocked later than claimed. 'Married' sets (period boxes fitted with mismatched or later period bottles to increase value) are common in antique apothecary and campaign chests, requiring careful inspection of the interior fittings to ensure they are original to the box.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.