Miniature Striped-Maple Serpentine Chest of Drawers

About the Item

American, probably Boston or Salem, Massachusetts Miniature Serpentine Chest of Drawers, circa 1785-1800 Striped maple, ebony, and rosewood (secondary woods: mahogany), with brass drawer pulls Measures: 7 7/8 in. high, 10 1/2 in. wide, 7 3/16 in. deep Miniature furniture has often been relegated to the “toy” category, and indeed much of it is poorly made that would befit its apparent purpose as playthings for children. On the other hand, occasionally one encounters a miniature that is flawlessly crafted, much like larger pieces that came from the leading cabinet shops of their time. The present miniature chest falls into the latter category, and from a design and cabinetmaking stand-point, stands at the top of its craft. Transitional in design, with bracket feet and a serpentine front that are heir to the Chippendale tradition, the chest is made of an unusually finely marked striped maple, or possibly satinwood, that signals the influence of the newly fashionable Neo-Classical aesthetic, which is further emphasized by the delicate inlays of ebony and crossbanding of rosewood. Stylistically, the chest is typical of work from Eastern New England, and likely came from one of the leading shops in the cabinetmaking centers of Boston or Salem, Massachusetts, in the last years of the 18th century. Condition: Excellent. Probably has an old refinish. The brass handles are old but not original. Witness of the original hardware is present.

Dimensions:

Height: 7.88 in (20.02 cm)Width: 11.13 in (28.28 cm)Depth: 7.25 in (18.42 cm)

Style:

Chippendale (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Wood

Place of Origin:

United States

Period:

1780-1789

Date of Manufacture:

circa 1785-1800

Condition:

Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. CONDITION: Excellent. Probably has an old refinish. The brass handles are old but not original. Witness of the original hardware is present.

Seller Location:

New York, NY

Reference Number:

Seller: FAPG 20711D1stDibs: LU90327363143

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