A highboy is a tall chest of drawers built in two stacked sections, providing substantial vertical storage capacity. The design elevates the storage space off the floor. In historical contexts, these pieces served as principal bedroom furniture for linens and garments. They combined practicality with formal presence.

How do I date a tallboy?

Dating relies on examining timber species, construction methods, and hardware styles. 18th century examples show specific cabinetmaking traits distinct from 1920s revival pieces. Secondary woods like pine and oak, hand-cut dovetails, and original brasses help establish the period of manufacture. Revival pieces often display standardised machine work.

Where were tallboys used?

These tall storage chests were traditionally housed in domestic bedchambers and dressing rooms. Their vertical format suited rooms with limited floor space. Today, they function effectively in hallways, dining rooms, and bedrooms as statement storage items. Their height provides substantial capacity without dominating room layouts.

What is the difference between a tallboy and a chest on chest?

The terms are largely interchangeable within the antique trade to describe a two-tier stacking chest. Both configurations place a narrower upper section onto a wider base chest. Regional preferences often dictate which term appears in a description. Both formats prioritize vertical storage over wide drawer layouts.