Antique Late 1600s British William and Mary Chest of Drawers Made of Quarter Sawn Oak

Description

In its 350 years of existence, what rooms has this chest been in? Whose lives has it been a part … more In its 350 years of existence, what rooms has this chest been in? Whose lives has it been a part of? It has such a depth of character, and you have the chance to add the next chapter to its story.

Built in the late 1600s, this chest has all the hallmarks of the William & Mary style that was popular in England at that time. The heavy proportions, the bun feet, and thick drawer moldings are all key elements of that style and add to its air of majesty. While replacements, the drop-pull handles are correct for the style as well. The beautiful quartersawn oak gives a stripped appearance to the wood in the drawer faces and sides and the old finish has a rich, dark patina.

The construction details confirm this piece is from the 1600s and not a later reproduction. The drawers were originally side hung, though at some point they were converted to slide on drawer runners. Additionally, all the nails are rosehead nails used in that time period. Another interesting feature is that the top two drawers have Quaker locks (thin strips of wood underneath the drawer that you press from underneath so the drawer can open). This type of lock is uncommon and adds to the piece's character. With full oak primary and secondary woods, this chest is undoubtedly British.

A feature you should note is that there is only one large central back foot (pictured) instead of the typical two on each side. This central back foot is a replacement and does not impact the stability of the piece.

We hope you love this chest as much as we do! Fewer pieces survive from this time period, so we hope you treasure having such a historic piece in your home! less