Federal Period Inlaid Mahogany Bowfront Chest of Drawers
New England States, c. 1810

Featuring solid mahogany planks making up the sides and top of this fine case, dovetailed into the pine secondary woods of the bottom, nailed at the top, this beautiful chest of drawers from the first quarter of the 19th Century has delightful petite proportions that make it convenient for most rooms. The bow front drawers are built up of strips of pine, covered with a flamed mahogany veneer and inlaid in an ovular shape from side to side, framing the Hepplewhite style replaced hardware and wooden keyhole escutcheons (also probably replaced). The drawers are hand dovetailed front and back, somewhat rebuilt as noted in the condition statement below, and in smooth operating condition, flowing easily in and out of the case for a fully functional appeal. These are divided with a yellow pine backed and mahogany veneered bar, presumably dovetailing into the side of the case behind the veneers. A fine inlay encases the drawers and sides, with diamond form cut in satinwood and ebonized wood to bring clean lines to the case. A softly scalloped apron curves gracefully between the splayed French feet, each fully original including all blocking and interior support. The back is made up of three pine boards, each connecting to the next with tongue-and-groove joinery, nailed along the sides, entirely original.

This is an absolutely gorgeous work of Early Americana of the Federal Period, the delicate proportions being one of the most desirable aspects of this fine chest. In simply outstanding visual condition, with full strength and function in all parts, clean and well preserved, this is a wonderful compliment to any fine home. You will treasure this beautiful work of art and it will certainly become a family heirloom, passed down through the generations to come and fully enjoyed in your home.

Measurements:
37" wide x 20 1/8" deep x 38 1/4" high

Condition:
Visually Outstanding Condition
1. Finish is early, but not original; some dripping to finish, notable beneath the hardware
2. Drawers are somewhat rebuilt - blocking along the underside of bow front of drawers securing the bottom to the front is replaced on many. Runners on the drawers are replaced. Also, the drawer bottoms are somewhat curious, possibly adjusted or replaced when the runners were added and blocking - the nails at the back of the drawer bottoms are 20th century.
3. Top of chest with some finish flaws - a few scratches, a few scars and one area with some water spots
4. Oval pull hardware is replaced, locks are replaced and third drawer lock is absent. No key available.
5. Keyhole escutcheons are wooden and are probably replacements
6. Some patching to the bottom drawer and around the veneer rim
7. Some veneer loss - the bottom drawer on the left side veneer separated but retained in a small bag for later restoration. Loss of veneer to rim.
8. Minor chipping to apron and around the feet, along with minor paint marks and scuffs throughout.
9. Feet are entirely original - outstanding overall structural condition.

Full photo archive and details on this piece are available on our website at:
http://www.sillafineantiques.com/servlet/the-412/american-antique-bowfront-chest/Detail

Antique Furniture
Antique Dressers & Vanities