Are all 17th century dressers made of oak?

While oak forms the primary material for the majority of these items, makers also utilised walnut, fruitwood, elm, and chestnut. Different timbers often appear together within the same piece, particularly where decorative veneers are applied. Secondary woods frequently line the interior components or provide structural support beneath outer decorative veneers. This combination of native and decorative timbers defines the material palette of the period.

How do I spot a revival piece from an original?

Original period items display authentic timber shrinkage, handmade fixings, and natural wear patterns accumulated over hundreds of years. Construction marks on the interior timbers align with early carpentry methods. Revival pieces, often produced during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, utilise machine-sawn components and standardised fixings. Examining the drawer linings and rear boards usually clarifies the true age of the timber.

Where should I place a dresser in my home?

These low furniture forms suit dining rooms, hallways, and living spaces as statement storage units. Their heavy proportions require adequate floor space and a stable, level surface. Pl 7th century pieces need protection from direct sunlight and extreme humidity fluctuations to preserve the timber and veneer. Placing them away from heat sources prevents wood drying and cracking.