This shaving table is said to have belonged to Horatio Nelson. It is veneered with mahogany and the two handles on either side indicate that it would most likely have been used as travelling furniture. The top opens out to reveal a cut-out for a bowl and glass (now missing) and there is a swing mirror at the back of the cabinet. A silver plaque attached has the engraved inscription: 'Lord Nelson’s cabin Washstand on board the Victory/ Owner J. Augustine Brown Esq.'

James Augustine Brown served as clerk under Nelson in the 'Boreas', to which he transferred from the 'Goliath' in the spring of 1784. His chief responsibility was the pay lists and it was during this time that he was probably Nelson's secretary. He later became a purser, serving most of his time in the East Indies on the 'Victorious.' According to family tradition, this shaving table was a gift from Nelson to Brown for secretarial services.