Diminutive Five Drawer Mahogany Chest

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Description

This is definitely vintage and likely an antique based on a couple of consultations from those in the know. The … Read more This is definitely vintage and likely an antique based on a couple of consultations from those in the know. The features that indicate its antique descriptor include the imperfect/hand cut dovetails on the drawers (picture #11), the chamfered drawer bottoms that date from the mid 18th century forward (pictures #10, 11), the slips used in the drawer construction and the screws installed in the back of the drawer bottoms to accommodate seasonal movement in the wood (picture #11). The bracket feet and drawers are similar to those seen on Georgian furniture.

I just couldn't pass up this lovely little piece, although it had been a bit damaged and neglected in the past. As can be seen in the picture of the first side (#3), both of the bracket feet on the right hand side of the chest were previously broken, and unfortunately 'repaired' with a block of wood secured with ~ 20 brad nails; one was especially poorly reset. The majority of the brad nails were removed from both feet (believe me, a difficult job), four new corner blocks were prepared and glued in with hide glue, and the most offensive bracket foot, and the one seen from the front was re-set and touched up with wax (picture #8).

The piece maintains its natural finish, as far as I can tell. I've only given it a cleaning, and a light refreshing including a few cosmetic touch ups in spots w/stain pens, followed by a beeswax polish. The darker coloration on drawer #3 is apparently a characteristic of the natural wood (per a refinisher I consulted). The (Victorian era?) brass bail pulls are quite graceful. See less