1880-85 Empire Mahogany Butler's Chest With Interior Birdseye Maple Accents
RARE 19TH CENTURY EMPIRE STYLE BUTLER'S CHEST -- Try and Find Another in This Condition.
--- VERY STURDY MAHOGANY CONSTRUCTION
--- HIDDEN DESK & BIRDSEYE MAPLE ACCENTS ON INSIDE DRAWERS (Hidden Compartment Within!)
SALE PRICE: $2,000
This wonderful piece is PRICED RIGHT. On Royal Street in New Orleans or on 1st Dibs or some of the other designer sites, this piece would be listed at near 5 figures. We are able to offer it at a far more reasonable price.
This all-original handcrafted mahogany plantation Empire-style butler's desk or "pantry" -- sometimes called a "butler's chest" -- will not disappoint. It was made during the 1800's, no later than 1880. There are also 3 drawers on the bottom with the ORIGINAL wooden pulls, which are often damaged or missing. It is from a Neville Plantation Estate and is 100% authentic, with its original working doors and shelving intact -- ALL complete and right.
The lovely centerpiece of the chest is the hidden desk, which opens to reveal many pigeonholes and one hidden compartment. The chest was made by hand in every respect, as noted in the pictures. The construction is very solid and the piece is HEAVY. This is NOT a cheap "knock-off" -- it is the real McCoy.
The photos are provided to demonstrate the A-1 condition of this rare mahogany butler's chest -- especially the hidden interior desk with the fancy birds-eye maple accents on the inside drawers. VERY cool!
The piece has the marks of that service BUT is still absolutely SOLID IN EVERY RESPECT. We have removed the contents, dusted it off inside and out but have not otherwise tried to clean it. Even now, the wood remains very attractive and the crafting is both eye-catching and distinctive. This is a unique and lovely piece from "back in the day." The original desk-top opens and closes beautifully as do the 3 drawers below. The wood grain is just worn and lovely, a great old patina, especially after a proper reconditioning.
The locking mechanism still work AOK but the original key has been lost along the way. These are easily replaced online, though. This unusual chest will make a statement in any room.
MEASUREMENTS and DETAILS: Height 44 1/2″; Width 46 1/2″; Depth 43″ with desk all the way open.
The chest is graceful in its Empire style symmetry -- simple and elegant lines, as noted in the pictures. It has very appealing proportions. The door locks are all in place and a replacement key will work them fine.
SALE PRICE: $2,000 --- Try and find another one of these. You won't -- not like this one.