Featured Did I accidentally buy an antique chest of drawers?

Discussion in 'Furniture' started by Hallingdalen, Aug 19, 2025.

  1. Hallingdalen

    Hallingdalen Member

    I recently bought two pieces for $40 each (first pictures). I knew those were later reproductions, but while I was there the seller also offered me a chest of drawers for $80. As a bit of a gamble, I figured “why not” and took it without really looking too closely.

    The seller mentioned he’d seen similar pieces online at much higher prices, though he said this one wasn’t one of those. When I got it home, I noticed the underside looked pretty odd—at first I panicked thinking it might be mushrooms or something—but it turned out to just be oxidation.

    Now I’m curious: what do you all think about the age? To me it looks and feels like a British mahogany chest of drawers, but I’m not sure how old it might be. Any thoughts or pointers would be really helpful!
    IMG_2865.jpg IMG_2868.jpg
    IMG_2865.jpg IMG_2875.jpg IMG_2877.jpg IMG_2878.jpg IMG_2911.jpg IMG_2911.jpg IMG_2914.jpg IMG_2919.jpg IMG_2921.jpg IMG_2853.jpg
     
    Born2it, aaroncab and Any Jewelry like this.
  2. evelyb30

    evelyb30 Well-Known Member

    The second one is definitely old. How old..no idea.
     
    Born2it and Hallingdalen like this.
  3. Robert Ransom

    Robert Ransom Well-Known Member

    I am guessing early 1900's. It appears to have been refinished a few times and the top drawers have had the hardware replaced with non-matching components. The base leg support brackets are various non-uniform. The patina appears to vary on one of the drawers. IMO, original dresser with mods. as listed.
     
    Hallingdalen likes this.
  4. laura9797

    laura9797 Well-Known Member

    Perhaps earlier then 1900? I love that the back is multi-board. Are the locking mechanisms stamped?
     
    Hallingdalen likes this.
  5. Hallingdalen

    Hallingdalen Member

    No stamps on the locking mechanism. I agree with all the inputs - the furniture is sending me mixed signals...
     
  6. laura9797

    laura9797 Well-Known Member

    If they are from across the pond, cabinetmakers were really good at incorporating some older pieces and techniques into newer cases.
     
    Hallingdalen likes this.
  7. Hallingdalen

    Hallingdalen Member

    Purchased in Drammen, Norway – likely of English or Northern European origin?
     
  8. laura9797

    laura9797 Well-Known Member

    Dust boards tend to be a clue as most American companies did not incorporate them.
     
    Any Jewelry likes this.
  9. Robert Ransom

    Robert Ransom Well-Known Member

    Additionally, the rear panel is a replacement as evidenced by fit issues shown in interior and rear photos.
     
  10. Robert Ransom

    Robert Ransom Well-Known Member

    Also, what is going on with the left bottom interior???
     
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