Reeded Column Mounted Chest

This four-drawer chest has carved and reeded columns that terminate in limp lion paws. This relates to what Joseph Barry advertised as being an elliptic bureau with columns. The front feet are carved with acanthus leaves and the back feet are simpler versions of the front without carving. The treatment of the columns with limp hairy paw feet at the base closely relates to the signed Joseph Barry sideboard in Wintherthur’s collection. Brass lion’s mask pulls were often seen on chests made by Barry. This chest is one of a pair, the other chest being in the collection of The Biggs Museum of American Art. The top of this piece has been cut to be flush with the back of the chest, chests like this usually had an overhang on the back so that the top could be flush against the wall without hitting the baseboard.

Related examples in Philadelphia Empire Furniture, 2006 (figures 242, 243, 244, 245, 294, 295). Foliate carved cornice, brass mounted columns, curly maple interior, incredible stenciling, arched bolection molding on fall front and drawer, carved legs, paneled back, wonderful details throughout. 

As with all of our furniture, in ‘as found’ condition.
Very nice overall condition.
Measures  40" H x 46 1/2" W x 25" D
Mahogany Veneer, poplar and white pine