The Conservation Center recently treated a finely crafted cabinet-on-chest, complete with its original key. Traditionally, a cabinet-on-chest combines a chest of drawers at its base with a smaller cabinet or cupboard above. Distinguished by its glazed doors, veneered surfaces, and turned details, this example once served not only as practical storage but also as a showcase of craftsmanship in the home.
Watch a video of the treatment below, and then scroll to learn more:
Cabinet-on-chests rose to popularity in the late 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting both changing storage needs and advances in cabinetmaking. By stacking an upper cabinet onto a chest of drawers, makers created a versatile form that offered secure storage below and a prominent display area above. Decorative veneers, inlays, crossbanding, and moldings often highlighted the skill of the craftsman. Today, cabinet-on-chests are valued by collectors and historians alike for their refined design and the glimpse they provide into past domestic life.
When this piece arrived at the lab, signs of age and use were immediately apparent. A layer of dust dulled its surface, and the finish showed scattered losses. Veneer and inlay were missing or unstable in several areas, including bead and arch moldings around the glazed doors. Structurally, one leg was detached with evidence of old repairs, the cornice blocking was loose, case elements were separating, and shrinkage splits ran through the sides and drawer bottoms. The drawers themselves protruded or stuck when closed, reflecting years of wear.
Before treatment:
Treatment addressed both stability and appearance. Veneer and structural issues were carefully re-adhered, while our senior furniture conservator, Rob Kleeman, recreated missing moldings to match the originals.
The process of replacing the missing moldings, from preliminary sketch to finished product:
Losses were patched with sympathetic materials, and the detached leg was reattached with a discreet reinforcement dowel for long-term strength. Drawers were adjusted for smooth operation, and interior stops were reset. After surface cleaning to remove accumulated dust, oils, and waxes, repairs were retouched to blend seamlessly with the original patina. The finish was revived and polished, and a protective layer of wax was applied to restore the cabinet-on-chest’s sheen.
After treatment.
Through conservation, this cabinet-on-chest has regained both stability and elegance. It can once again be appreciated not only as a functional object but also as a testament to the craftsmanship and design sensibilities of its era. With its finish revived and details reinstated, it stands ready to continue its story as a striking example of historic furniture.
Sources:
https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5768704
https://emuseum.colonialwilliamsburg.org/objects/31754/cabinet-on-chest-wwriting-drawer
https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O299357/cabinet-on-chest-unknown/
