1930s Monterey Gentleman's Dresser in Smoky Maple W Floral Decoration

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Description

Circa 1935. Measures 34" wide x 48" high x 20" deep. Minor stain on the top. Charmingly we find the … Read more Circa 1935. Measures 34" wide x 48" high x 20" deep. Minor stain on the top. Charmingly we find the name Pee-Wee on the inside of one of its doors.

 Monterey was generally made from Oregon alder, and the "classic period", from 1930–1932 was painted with a lively Mexican palette toned down with an asphaltum glaze that created the look of antique furniture. Many layers of paint went into the final finish in the Mason line. The colors used were bold: Spanish Red, Spanish Green, Spanish Blue, Straw Yellow. Neutrals had an old antiqued charm in Straw Ivory and Old Wood. In the beginning most pieces had some sort of decorative elements, such as the "river of life," a lively squiggle, or a floral decoration. A Mexican cartoonist signing himself Juan Intenoche headed the paint department, and the most valuable pieces of Monterey contain his whimsical designs. Donkeys, caballeros, sleeping men under wide hats, cactus and other images are his trademark. Mason Manufacturing, who produced this for Barker Brothers to their specifications and designs, branded most of the furniture with a horseshoe and the name, "Monterey," though not all are branded. The company produced furniture for 14 years, and went through the following periods: classic, transitional, and middle. See less