A Gentleman’s Travelling compendium, by Asprey, London, c. 1870
Apparently unused, the black morocco case with gilt tooling and Asprey patent inset spring handle to lid opening to reveal an opulently worked interior with engraved gilt brass fretwork, complete set of accessories including compass, barometer, Sampson Morden drawing set, spring stationery racks with inkwells and vesta with fish-skin strike and bearing London hallmarks for 1871, scissors, ivory ruler, seal, knife, quill cutter and nib cleaner, etc., morocco bound gilt edged books for cash, addresses and journal, the inside lid with writing slopes, calendar, thermometer, postal rates to India, accessory tray lifting to reveal inner compartment, concealed jewellery and sovereign compartments, secret tray, engraved lock plates with Bramah locks and much other fine detail -- 9¼ x 21¼ x 40¼in. (23 x 54 x 37cm.)
Such travel compendiums existed even before 1870 and were very popular not only with travelling gentlemen, but also with officers of the East India Company, the Royal Navy and wealthy merchant captains who had enough money to buy such expensive boxes. These were then used privately and were accommodated in their cabins. It was not only practical to have everything in one place, it also underlined the social status, which was not the same for all officers.