Antique Chest of Drawers with Mirror Top, 1890s

Details

Description

This impressive chest of drawers with an attached mirror dates from around 1900 and combines a classic chest of drawers … Read more This impressive chest of drawers with an attached mirror dates from around 1900 and combines a classic chest of drawers with a fixed, integrated upper section featuring understated profiling. The clear horizontal lines, the calm proportions of the drawers, and the simply framed mirror lend the piece a cohesive and sophisticated overall appearance. Historical Context: Chests of drawers with mirrored upper sections were a standard feature of middle-class bedrooms and dressing rooms around the turn of the century. They combined storage space for linens or personal items with an attached mirror surface that facilitated daily grooming and dressing. Such furniture responded to changing living arrangements with separate bedrooms and an increasing need for functionally organized furniture. The combination of chest of drawers, gallery, and mirror often replaced separate washstands or dressing tables, consolidating multiple functions into a single compact piece. Features: - Two-part construction with attached mirror frame and integrated gallery surface - Five drawers of varying heights with recessed brass handles. Design: This piece of furniture belongs to the late Historicist period, circa 1900. Characteristic features include the clearly defined edges, the subtly profiled frame panels, and the calm, horizontal articulation of the front. Function: Originally, this piece served as a combined linen and dressing chest in the bedroom or dressing room. Today, it remains suitable as a bedroom chest, but can also be used in the hallway or living area as storage with an integrated mirror. Dimensions in cm: Height 88–181 × Width 109 × Depth 54. Material and Condition: Solid oak with visible wood grain, original brass fittings. Very good, age-appropriate condition with visible patina and typical signs of wear. Structurally inspected, stable and functional. See less