George I Walnut Chest-on-Chest
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Impeccable craftsmanship and design distinguish this rare George I-period chest-on-chest
Key Features
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- This rare and exceptional George I chest-on-chest is crafted of highly desirable walnut
- Architectural decorative features are a testament to this chest's superb craftsmanship
- Circa 1725
- 43 1/8" wide x 23 1/8" deep x 69 1/8" high
Item Details
- Width:
43 1/8 Inches - Height:
69 1/8 Inches - Depth:
23 1/8 Inches - Period:
18th Century - Origin:
England/Ireland
Subtle, yet impressive details adorn this superb George I-period chest-on-chest. Constructed of walnut, the chest boasts six full and two smaller frieze drawers, and has aged perfectly in order to reveal the wood's lustrous patterns, while bronze pulls and lock covers complement its fiery hues. The chest's decorative features are also exquisite, particularly the reeded canted corners, molded cornice and bracket feet, all a testament to this piece's outstanding craftsmanship and superior design. Walnut chest-on-chests are considered the most desirable, followed by those crafted of mahogany and then oak. Similar chests are featured in British Antique Furniture: Price Guide and Reasons for Values by John Andrews.
Circa 1725
43 1/8" wide x 23 1/8" deep x 69 1/8" high
The chest-on-chest was introduced early in the 18th century. Also known as the tallboy, it served as the wardrobe of the 18th century. Tallboys eventually gave place to the modern type of wardrobe, which, with its sliding doors, was found to give easier and more convenient access than the exceedingly tall chest. The topmost drawers of the tallboy could only be reached by the use of bed steps, and the disappearance of high beds and the consequent disuse of steps exercised a certain influence in displacing a characteristic piece of furniture that was popular for at least a century. The early examples are walnut, but by far the largest portion of the many that have survived are mahogany, this being the wood most frequently employed in the 18th century for the construction of furniture, especially the more massive pieces. To find a walnut chest of such exceptional quality is truly rare.
Circa 1725
43 1/8" wide x 23 1/8" deep x 69 1/8" high
The chest-on-chest was introduced early in the 18th century. Also known as the tallboy, it served as the wardrobe of the 18th century. Tallboys eventually gave place to the modern type of wardrobe, which, with its sliding doors, was found to give easier and more convenient access than the exceedingly tall chest. The topmost drawers of the tallboy could only be reached by the use of bed steps, and the disappearance of high beds and the consequent disuse of steps exercised a certain influence in displacing a characteristic piece of furniture that was popular for at least a century. The early examples are walnut, but by far the largest portion of the many that have survived are mahogany, this being the wood most frequently employed in the 18th century for the construction of furniture, especially the more massive pieces. To find a walnut chest of such exceptional quality is truly rare.
