Description
Regency Mahogany Chest-on-Chest – Circa 1800
Crafted in two stately tiers, this Regency-era chest-on-chest exemplifies the elegance and practicality of early 19th-century design. The upper section features an outswept cornice with banded inlay, a dentil band, and a scrolling embossed frieze, resting above a pair of drawers and three graduated drawers. The lower half offers four spacious drawers, framed by reeded canted corners and supported by classic bracket legs. Each drawer is fitted with loop handles, and the piece includes a lock (no key).
Condition Notes:
This chest bears the marks of time: extensive varnish loss to the left side, split to the upper right, chips, scuffing, restoration to the upper half, some insect damage, and split drawer bases. These imperfections add character and authenticity to its 225-year legacy.
Why Mahogany Matters
Mahogany was the wood of choice for fine furniture during the Regency period, valued for its rich reddish-brown hue, tight grain, and exceptional durability. It was sourced from tropical regions and became synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. Owning a mahogany piece like this is owning a fragment of global trade history and aristocratic taste.
Purpose & Use in Interior Design
The chest-on-chest was designed for maximum vertical storage without sacrificing floor space—ideal for storing garments, linens, or documents. Its tall stature and architectural detailing make it a natural focal point in bedrooms, studies, or hallways.
• Use it in a bedroom as a statement dresser.
• Place it in a study or library to store archival materials or textiles.
• Feature it in a boutique or gallery as a display piece that evokes heritage and refinement.
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