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Mastercraft Boxes

Compared to that other furniture-makers in historically minded Grand Rapids, Michigan, the work of Mastercraft seems positively flamboyant. The company was founded in 1947 by brothers Charles and William Doezema, who hailed from a long line of cabinetmakers. They went overseas during their service in World War II, and returned home with a plan to make furniture with cosmopolitan flair. Their firm specialized in chairs and case pieces that have modernized traditional forms, finished in exotic wood veneers such as amboyna, yew, burl and fruitwood, and trimmed in brass. Bureaus and credenzas often feature cabinet fronts with decorative brass details such as silhouettes of flowers and birds, or figures that resemble Chinese characters.

In later years, Mastercraft created chairs and glass-topped coffee tables with brass frames. Some pieces included touches like the Greek key — a motif that appears in the decorative arts of both Asian and European antiquity. After Mastercraft was acquired by industry giant Baker Furniture in 1974, the company produced a large group of case pieces featuring applied brass plaques, acid-etched with semi-abstract forms by the German-born, Vancouver-based artist Bernhard Rohne.

The latter are some of the most popular Mastercraft pieces, and like all the company’s wares range in price from about $2,000 to $12,000 depending on size, condition and the amount of decorative trim. As you will see on 1stDibs, Mastercraft furnishings made a bold but artful statement — perfect for lending a bit of dash and brawn to a contemporary decor.

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Creator: Mastercraft
Chapman / Mastercraft Lacquered Walnut and Brass Strong Box Chest
Chapman / Mastercraft Lacquered Walnut and Brass Strong Box Chest

Chapman / Mastercraft Lacquered Walnut and Brass Strong Box Chest

By Mastercraft

Located in Queens, NY

American Mid-Century strong box / chest with a painted and lacquered walnut hinge top case with wire wrapped brass handles, resting on a four-legged brass base. (CHAPMAN / MASTERCRAFT).

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Mastercraft Boxes

Materials

Metal, Brass

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Mastercraft boxes for sale on 1stDibs.

Mastercraft boxes are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Mastercraft boxes, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original boxes by Mastercraft were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider boxes by and Tiffany & Co.. Prices for Mastercraft boxes can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $5,800 and can go as high as $5,800, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $5,800.
Questions About Mastercraft Boxes
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Because Mastercraft Furniture Co. is no longer in business, you will need to buy vintage furniture from the brand. You can shop local vintage and thrift shops or look for listings from auction houses. Mastercraft furniture is also available from reputable online platforms. You'll find a selection of Mastercraft furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To identify Mastercraft furniture, look for the signature features of their designs. The furniture maker often finished pieces in veneers made of exotic hardwoods like burl, fruitwood, yew and amboyna. Brass trim is a characteristic of many of their pieces. Find a range of Mastercraft furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Mastercraft Furniture Co. is no longer made, as the company closed in 1985. While it was still operating, the furniture maker produced its pieces at its own factory in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Shop a selection of Mastercraft furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    No, the Mastercraft Furniture Co. is no longer in business. The company permanently closed in 1985. While in operation, the company's headquarters were located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. You can shop a variety of expertly vetted Mastercraft furniture on 1stDibs.