What is a bow front dresser?

A bow front dresser is a storage piece featuring a convex curved front, most commonly built as a chest of drawers or sideboard. These pieces emerged during the Georgian period and remained popular through the Regency and Victorian eras.

How do I spot a Georgian piece?

Georgian pieces display hand-cut dovetails, oak or pine secondary woods, and proportions that prioritise elegance over heavy ornamentation. Timber choice often includes figured mahogany with subtle satinwood stringing rather than later machine veneers.

Where should I place one?

Their curved profile makes them suitable for hallways, living rooms, and bedrooms where sharp corners would obstruct movement. The shallow sides and deeper centre allow them to sit flush against walls while offering deep central storage.

Are these pieces made of solid mahogany?

Most pieces combine solid mahogany frames with fine mahogany veneers applied to secondary woods like pine or oak. This technique prevented the curved drawer fronts from warping while presenting a decorative outer grain.