A Late Victorian Black Painted Chest of Drawers c.1880-90

Origin English
Period: Late Victorian
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1880-90
Width: 34”
Depth: 18”
Height: 32.5”

The charming late Victorian chest of drawers of particularly pleasing, smaller proportions, retaining a wonderfully timeworn black painted surface, the rectangular top having rounded oversailing edges, sitting above an arrangement of two short and two long drawers, each retaining turned wooden knob handles and original keyholes, the whole raised upon four turned bun feet. 

In entirely untouched, country house condition, with extensive historic wear, scratches, scuffs and losses to the painted decoration throughout with bitumen to each surface. The black paint has worn considerably over the years, revealing glimpses of earlier reddish-brown tones and the natural timber beneath, particularly across the top and around the edges, whilst the drawer fronts retain a pleasingly textured and aged surface. Minor irregularities and signs of use commensurate with age. The painted finish has not been restored and remains a particularly appealing feature of the piece.

Such modestly proportioned chests were produced throughout the Victorian period, often intended for bedrooms, servants' quarters or smaller domestic interiors where practical storage was required without the grandeur of larger bedroom furniture. The simple construction, restrained decoration and utilitarian turned handles reflect the enduring influence of vernacular English furniture. Painted examples have become increasingly desirable, particularly those retaining surfaces which have developed their character naturally over successive generations of use.

A wonderfully atmospheric little chest, its unpretentious form and exceptional surface giving it considerable decorative appeal. Equally suited to a country house bedroom, hallway or contemporary interior, where its beautifully distressed black paint provides a striking contrast to more refined surroundings.