With our absolute highest compliments Bay Colony Antiques takes the utmost pleasure in offering this wonderful antique chest of drawers. This antique dresser, also referred to as a bachelor's chest, is among the finest examples from the treasured history of New England which we have ever brought to market. It is our privilege to present this exceptional chest for the consideration of collectors and enthusiasts across the country. Our present offering is a product of a master cabinetmaker working in New Hampshire during the later years of the 18th century. The chest is formatted in the traditional Chippendale design which was the preeminent style between the Queen Anne and American Federal periods. These antique chests are prized among collectors of early period furniture as they were constructed at the height of American craftsmanship at a unique moment in our history when the highest standards of production were demanded and found in all artistic pursuits.
This chest is a superb example of rural New England craftmanship with a case constructed of flame birch and cherry. There are four brilliant tiger maple drawers that are fitted with antique locks and brass bail handles which appear to be original to the chest. The drawers are constructed with handcut dovetails along with chamfered drawer panels. The native New England pine secondary woods which comprise the drawers and back of the chest have every indication of oxidation throughout two and a half centuries. The back boards are secured with centuries old hand cut iron nails and an examination of the underside of the chest reveals dovetailed stretcher construction as well as antique glue blocks. The chest stands on four traditional bracket feet which have an elaborate scrollwork design that is indicative of early New Hampshire craftsmanship. The chest measures 39 1/4" wide x 18" deep x 35 1/2" tall.
