Antique 1880s Victorian Eastlake Walnut Side Lock Tallboy Dresser Chest Drawers

Description

Antique Eastlake side lock chest of drawers, circa 1880s. Made of walnut featuring a side lock panel, four drawers and unique brass hardware with northwind face at the center.

This mythological Norse-like figure is a common characteristic of a style of furniture commonly called “North Wind” Chairs. This type of furniture was popularized in the 19th and early 20th century often depicting the wind god Aeolus carved into the backrest of a chair. Typically the images would depict him either stoic or blowing wind in a “grotesque” manner.

This type of imagery was part of the Greek and Renaissance Revival furniture movements. The Greek style, which happened in both Europe and America, would put images of Greek gods on furniture with curved legs and dark ebonized wood. The Renaissance Revival style would try to mimic 16th century designs using mahogany and walnut woods while having high relief carvings of flowers or classic figures to reflect the high style of the renaissance period.

These types of dressers are also known as “boarding house dressers” because the locking mechanism protected the room occupant’s valuables from theft. It is a fitting name that no doubt explained the purpose of the piece well.

These chests of drawers are also referred to as “Wellington Chests,” named after Arthur Wellesley, the first duke of Wellington. Wellesley was commissioned as an ensign in the British army in 1787, eventually moving up to earn the rank of colonel in 1796 and governor in 1799. He reportedly used a side-locking chest during military campaigns.

Condition

Good antique condition; light distressing from use and age

Dimensions

19" x 34.5" x 38.5"h