What is a geometric moulded chest?

A geometric moulded chest is a seventeenth-century wooden storage unit featuring raised wooden pieces glued and pinned to the drawer fronts in repeating patterns. These patterns create a distinct architectural depth on the facade, separating them from flat-fronted furniture of later eras.

How old are most of these chests?

The majority of these chests date from the seventeenth century, specifically the reign of Charles II and the William and Mary period. Some later revival pieces appear from around nineteen hundred, reproducing the earlier styles using aged timber.

What woods were used to make them?

Oak is the predominant timber found in these constructions, serving as the sturdy base for carcases and drawer linings. Cabinetmakers also incorporated walnut, fruitwood, and decorative veneers to add colour contrast and visual texture to the geometric designs.

How do two-part chests function?

Two-part chests are built as two separate stacking cabinets rather than a single tall carcase. This design originated to ease movement through narrow staircases and doorways in seventeenth-century dwellings.