What defines a 20th-century low chest of drawers?

A low chest of drawers, often referred to as a lowboy or low dresser, gained popularity in the 20th century as a functional storage solution designed to fit under windows or complement lower seating arrangements. These pieces typically feature wide drawer configurations constructed from solid woods such as oak.

What materials were traditionally used in 20th-century oak chests?

Chests from this era were constructed primarily using solid oak or oak veneers over hardwood frames. Construction techniques often featured dovetail joints within the drawers, cast metal or brass drop handles, and moulded edge detailing along the frame structure.

How can you identify authentic 20th-century oak storage furniture?

Authentic vintage pieces display natural age-related character, including slight wear along drawer runners, hand-cut or early machine-dovetailed drawer joints, and historic metal hardware. Examining the rear panels and underside for period-appropriate joinery and timber oxidisation also helps confirm authenticity.

How can a low oak chest of drawers be styled in contemporary spaces?

A low oak chest functions effectively as a media console in a living area, an entryway storage unit, or positioned at the foot of a bed. Layering modern artwork, ceramic vessels, or lamps on the top surface balances the warm timber tones with contemporary interior elements.

How should vintage oak furniture be maintained and preserved?

Regular dusting with a dry microfibre cloth and periodic application of natural beeswax polish helps retain timber moisture and surface finish. To prevent cracking or warping, avoid placing oak furniture near direct heat sources or in prolonged direct sunlight.

for sale €579 $629

£495

ActFurniture LTD

Sellingantiques Verified Since Apr 2023

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Id #SA1226949

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Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Name: Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1226949
Price: 495 GBP
Availability: InStock

1900 - 1920

For Sale by ActFurniture LTD

Description

Vintage 20th century low chest of drawers in oak, very well made and of fine quality.

Featuring five drawers in total, arranged as four smaller drawers above one large drawer, this attractive chest provides a practical combination of storage while retaining its timeless appeal. All of the drawers are fitted with locks and are supplied with a working key.

Beautifully crafted with excellent proportions, this low chest combines quality construction with everyday functionality. Its compact height makes it a versatile piece, suitable for use in a bedroom, hallway or living space while offering generous storage.

Boasting gorgeous oak grain and rich colour throughout, this is a highly desirable example with exceptional warmth and natural character. The quality of the timber, elegant design and fine craftsmanship make it both practical and visually appealing.

Presented in good condition, displaying beautiful grain, colour and outstanding craftsmanship throughout, this charming vintage oak low chest of drawers would make a wonderful addition to any home.

Product Reference : AF - 6053

Measurements : 100cm Width x 60cm Depth x 48.5cm Height

All our products are available for viewing at our stockroom based in Malvern strictly by appointment only.

Every order is professionally cleaned and polished by our team prior to dispatch or collection.

Please feel free to get in contact with us regarding any queries you might have relating to a specific piece or if you’d like to arrange a visit and I aim to respond as quickly as possible.

Prior to making a purchase, it is important that you please contact us to confirm the piece is still available. We endeavour to keep our stock details up to date, but due to our fast stock turnover there maybe occasions where an item has been sold but it has not yet been updated online.

Delivery ( £65 ) :

All our pieces are professionally wrapped in black plastic and sent though a trusted private courier which we can organise upon your request.

The delivery service consists of a two man team with a delivery timeframe of 3 - 15 working days from the date payment has been received. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements and we will do our upmost to accommodate these, although no guarantees can be given.

The courier will be in contact with you directly with details of exact delivery date and approximate time of arrival.

We currently cover all of the UK Mainlands including most of Scotland.

Scotland -

Delivery cost and timeframe to Scotland and Scottish Highlands will vary regarding on the location and number of orders we have in the area so please get in contact for a direct quote.

Collection ( FREE ) :

Pieces can be collected from WR6 5JE free of charge strictly by appointment only. Please contact us to arrange this.

All goods will be professionally cleaned and polished by our team prior to your arrival.

Many thanks and if you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us and one of our team will respond as quickly as possible.

Physical Dimensions

Height

48.5cm (19.09")

Width

100cm (39.37")

Depth

60cm (23.62")

Declaration

ActFurniture LTD has dated this Vintage Oak Low Chest to the Edwardian era.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1226949

Dealers Internal Reference

AF-6053

Description

Vintage 20th century low chest of drawers in oak, very well made and of fine quality.

“

Featuring five drawers in total, arranged as four smaller drawers above one large drawer, this attractive chest provides a practical combination of storage while retaining its timeless appeal.

ActFurniture LTD

All of the drawers are fitted with locks and are supplied with a working key.

fig 1. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 1. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Beautifully crafted with excellent proportions, this low chest combines quality construction with everyday functionality. Its compact height makes it a versatile piece, suitable for use in a bedroom, hallway or living space while offering generous storage.

fig 2. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 2. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Boasting gorgeous oak grain and rich colour throughout, this is a highly desirable example with exceptional warmth and natural character. The quality of the timber, elegant design and fine craftsmanship make it both practical and visually appealing.

fig 3. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 3. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Presented in good condition, displaying beautiful grain, colour and outstanding craftsmanship throughout, this charming vintage oak low chest of drawers would make a wonderful addition to any home.

Product Reference : AF - 6053

fig 4. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 4. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Measurements : 100cm Width x 60cm Depth x 48.5cm Height

All our products are available for viewing at our stockroom based in Malvern strictly by appointment only.

Every order is professionally cleaned and polished by our team prior to dispatch or collection.

fig 5. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 5. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Please feel free to get in contact with us regarding any queries you might have relating to a specific piece or if you’d like to arrange a visit and I aim to respond as quickly as possible.

Prior to making a purchase, it is important that you please contact us to confirm the piece is still available. We endeavour to keep our stock details up to date, but due to our fast stock turnover there maybe occasions where an item has been sold but it has not yet been updated online.

fig 6. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 6. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

Delivery ( £65 ) :

All our pieces are professionally wrapped in black plastic and sent though a trusted private courier which we can organise upon your request.

The delivery service consists of a two man team with a delivery timeframe of 3 - 15 working days from the date payment has been received. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements and we will do our upmost to accommodate these, although no guarantees can be given.

fig 7. A low 20th-century oak chest of drawers featuring five drawers arranged across three tiers with diamond-shaped metal handles. — fig 7. Vintage 20th Century Low Chest of Drawers in Oak

The courier will be in contact with you directly with details of exact delivery date and approximate time of arrival.

We currently cover all of the UK Mainlands including most of Scotland.

Scotland -

Delivery cost and timeframe to Scotland and Scottish Highlands will vary regarding on the location and number of orders we have in the area so please get in contact for a direct quote.