High chest of drawers

This chest was considered an extremely important piece of American, late Baroque furniture from the 1930s until the 1960s, when close examination and x-rays revealed several alterations. The legs, finials, and brass hardware all have been replaced, and the gilding on the carved shells has been redone. However, the piece has fine proportions, elegant lines, spectacular swirling veneers, surprisingly intact stringing on the drawer fronts, attractively carved shells, intricate inlay, and most importantly, the date of its creation and the signature of its maker, on the back of the lower case. Replacements like those on this chest diminish its market value, yet in the Museum's collection, it retains its importance as a documented and beautiful work of art.