Antique Chippendale Cherry Highboy With Broken Swans Neck Pediment C. Late 18th Century

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A fine late 18th-century American Chippendale highboy in cherry, featuring a boldly shaped broken swan’s neck pediment centered by a … Read more A fine late 18th-century American Chippendale highboy in cherry, featuring a boldly shaped broken swan’s neck pediment centered by a turned urn finial. The upper case is arranged with an array of graduated drawers, the central drawer beautifully carved with a fan motif framed by vertical reeded panels—an elegant hallmark of the Chippendale period. The brass bail pulls are of an appropriate antique style and complement the warm cherry patina that has mellowed beautifully with age.

The lower section is fitted with an additional series of drawers above a shaped apron centered by a matching carved fan. The cabriole legs, ending in pad feet, provide graceful balance to the tall proportions of the piece, lending an air of refinement and verticality typical of high-style American colonial furniture. The craftsmanship and materials suggest New England origin, likely Connecticut or Massachusetts, c. 1780–1790.

In nice antique condition consistent with age and use, showing minor wear to surfaces and some expected shrinkage and color variation in the cherry. There is some loss to the dentil molding on either side of the broken swan’s neck pediment (pictured), but it does not detract from the overall presentation. The highboy retains an even finish and excellent structural integrity, making it both an outstanding decorative focal point and a fine example of late 18th-century American cabinetmaking tradition. 82h x 40w x 20d See less