What is a camphor chest used for?
What is a camphor chest used for?
CARVED CAMPHOR CHEST In the 18th and 19th century, chests made from naturally fragrant camphor wood were primarily used to transport tea, porcelain, and silks from China to Europe. Prior to their use in sea trade, camphor chests were used in Chinese households as storage units for objects such as blankets and linens.
How do I know if my Camphor has a chest?
Originally Answered: How can I identify the age of a camphor chest? It can be determined by the hardware used in it’s construction and by comparing yours to known examples. Also by examining “tool marks” left on the wood itself; it is possible to tell if hand tools or power tools were used in it’s construction.
How do you restore a camphor chest?
How to Clean & Restore Camphor Wood
- Wipe the camphor wood surface with a dry, microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt sitting on the surface.
- Wear away minor scratches with fine-grit sandpaper.
- Wood soap cleans camphor wood without removing moisture.
- Moisten a microfiber cloth with the wood soap solution.
Is camphor wood toxic?
The fragrant camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) and its products, such as camphor oil, have been coveted since ancient times. However, camphor is a very toxic substance and numerous cases of camphor poisoning have been documented.
How can you tell camphor wood?
It has a large, spreading canopy and a short, stout bole or trunk up to 1.5 m in diameter. The bark is greyish brown and has a rough texture. The leaves are alternate, 5–10 cm long and 2.5–5 cm wide and are a glossy green. Flowers are minute, white and borne on panicles or heads near the ends of branches.
How do you clean a Chinese chest?
For daily cleaning, use a dry cloth. To clean heavily carved areas when dust or dirt builds up, use a soft toothbrush lightly coated in a high quality paste wax. Regular waxing of the entire piece—every six months or so—will keep antique wooden furniture in top form.
How do you clean a carved wooden chest?
To Dust is a Must A thorough dusting every few weeks, or as needed, keeps those carvings crisp and clean. A feather duster or soft cloth brushed over the entire wood piece removes a majority of the dust. In the carved areas, brush several times with the feather duster.
Are camphor chests toxic?
The most recognizable product that contains the camphor extracts is the Medicated Breast Rubs, which have the same distinct scent. Allergies / Toxicity : Camphor has been reported to cause skin and respiratory irritation, as well as a number of other effects, such as headache, dizziness and asthma symptoms.
