Superb Teak & Brass Campaign Trunk

Superb & Rare Teak & Brass Campaign Trunk with inset armorial for HELSHAM + motto “PRAIS GOD FOR AL” 
Circa 1820

dimensions
38”l
21”d
22”h

This Trunk was most likely commissioned by Arthur Helsham of Leggetsrath, Co. Kilkenny (1786-1861), late Major in the Kilkenny Fusiliers Militia.  His family were long established in Kilkenny, being descended from Arthur Helsham, a Captain of foot in Cromwell's army who for "satisfaction of arrears of pay" received grants of land at Legget's Rath.  By buying similar grants from fellow soldiers he acquired a considerable landed estate, becoming Mayor of Kilkenny and dying in office in 1679