With our absolute highest compliments Bay Colony Antiques takes the utmost pleasure in offering this exceptional and rare early American antique blanket chest. We believe that this specimen is in all likelihood of Virginia origin based upon the unique format and the presence of southern American walnut hardwood which comprises most of the blanket chest. The previous owner of the chest did also inform us that the family had purchased this chest decades before in Virginia and that they had subsequentially moved to another state. We routinely check the collections of museums which house regional southern furniture distinguished by county and state such as The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts for any insights we can gather about the rarest forms of southern antiques. There is no denying that this blanket chest is an early and rare southern example which is worthy of any notable institution or collection focused on the history of the early southern states. A thorough examination of the case and hardware makes clear that this chest is an early example from the late 18th century or possibly the very beginning of the early 19th century. After two centuries the blanket chest has remained in exceptional condition and continues to be as sturdy and reliable as ever.
The blanket chest features a stunning contrast between the primary southern walnut used to construct the case against the solid tiger maple panel and drawer face which each have brilliant figured grain. The drawer face features an inlaid diamond escutcheon which is situated in front of the original 18th century iron lock. The entire drawer is completely all original with the underside of the drawer panel featuring centuries of undisturbed oxidation. The blanket chest is constructed with frame and panel joinery with a solid tiger maple front panel, figured walnut side panels, and a double paneled backboard. This panel construction allows for seasonal wood expansion and contraction so that the wooden panels remain free of age related splits or warping. The top of the chest has a fine molding applied on three sides and opens to reveal a full storage cavity. Two 18th century iron hinges allow the top to open and close and have remained in excellent condition with only a few adjustments to their position being necessary throughout the centuries. Beneath the single drawer is a double tapered support rail which is a subtle accent feature easy to miss at first glance. The entire case has developed a warm and rich patina throughout the exterior surfaces and the blanket chest stands on four finely turned legs with button feet. The blanket chest measures 37 1/2" wide x 19" deep x 27" tall overall.
