Burr walnut comes from a growth on the tree where the grain grows in a deformed manner. This creates highly decorative swirling patterns when sliced into thin veneers. Cabinet makers used these distinctive sheets on the main drawer fronts and top surfaces of storage furniture to catch the eye.

How do I spot an 18th-century piece?

Eighteenth-century examples often display subtle figuring, herringbone banding and specific proportions associated with the Queen Anne and George I eras. Drawer construction typically uses hand-cut dovetails and solid oak linings. Later revivals from the Victorian and Edwardian periods copied these styles but usually utilised machine-cut elements or different internal secondary timbers.

Were these cabinets used in bedrooms?

Storage items like chests of drawers, wardrobes and linen presses served primarily in sleeping quarters to hold clothing and household linens. Corner cabinets and commodes also found places in reception rooms and hallways. Their enclosed shelving and deep drawers kept textiles protected from dust and light.

What distinguishes Art Deco walnut storage?

Art Deco pieces from the 1930s favour smooth, curved surfaces, bow fronts and symmetrical burr walnut veneers without traditional ornamentation. Makers such as Harry and Lou Epstein embraced clean geometric lines. These items prioritized the natural grain pattern of the timber over applied carving or marquetry.