A highboy is a tall chest of drawers built in two sections, usually consisting of an upper chest resting on a lower base or stand. This form provides substantial vertical storage while taking up minimal floor space in a traditional interior.

How do I style a tallboy?

Place the piece against a flat wall in a bedroom or hallway where its height can anchor the room. Ensure adequate clearance above for the cornice moulding. Keep surrounding furniture lower in scale to let the vertical proportions of the cabinet stand out.

Are these pieces solid wood?

Many examples combine solid timbers with decorative wood veneers applied over secondary woods like pine or oak. Drawer linings and internal framing often utilise these secondary timbers for structural stability. This method prevented warping in wide panels while displaying expensive figured grain on the exterior surfaces.

How do I date a tallboy?

Examine the construction methods, timber choices, and hardware styles to determine the period of manufacture. 18th century pieces show hand-cut dovetails and specific cabinet proportions, while 20th century revivals reflect later production standards. Secondary woods and the style of the feet also provide reliable clues to the decade or century of origin.