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Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
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Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest

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$78,500
Item No. 31-4994

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Description
This incredibly rare serpentine-front chest of drawers is attributed to the iconic Thomas Chippendale and is counted as one of the few examples in existence made by his hand. An unquestionable masterpiece, this mahogany dresser is complete with its original brass swan-neck handles and bears the trademark protective “red wash” underneath, which Chippendale specifically used to safeguard his furnishings from insects. The dresser features four graduated, lockable drawers resting upon bracket feet with under casters.. . .
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This incredibly rare serpentine-front chest of drawers is attributed to the iconic Thomas Chippendale and is counted as one of the few examples in existence made by his hand. An unquestionable masterpiece, this mahogany dresser is complete with its original brass swan-neck handles and bears the trademark protective “red wash” underneath, which Chippendale specifically used to safeguard his furnishings from insects. The dresser features four graduated, lockable drawers resting upon bracket feet with under casters. It also includes within its top drawer a fitted brushing slide with a green leather surface. The function of this slide was to provide a place to lay clothes flat for brushing prior to wearing. Comparable chests by Thomas Chippendale were supplied to Wilton House and Paxton House.

The talent and genius of Thomas Chippendale’s designs defined the furniture styles of the 18th century. He was the first person to boast such a strong following that an entire style bears his name and not that of a monarch. By the age of 36, he owned a series of workshops throughout England and an expansive timber yard for harvesting the finest woods. In 1754, he published The Gentleman and Cabinetmaker’s Director, considered the “bible” of furniture design of its day. The book contained over 161 plates with an astounding range of furniture in the Gothic, Chinese and Rococo styles. Soon, this modest craftsman counted numerous members of nobility and society among his clientele, including Catherine II of Russia. Today, the name Chippendale invokes images of refined taste and unparalleled elegance. It is no wonder masterpieces such as this rare dresser are so treasured by collectors. 

Circa 1770

41 1/2" wide x 24" deep x 31 5/8" high
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Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
Type: Commodes/Chests
Thomas Chippendale Mahogany Serpentine Chest
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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

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