Antique Bird's Eye Maple Bow Front Chest

Updated September 3, 2026

Lot number21
CategorySporting Goods & Outdoors
AuctionSanta's Auction #1
DateSeptember 19, 2026 at 11:30 AM EDT
Auction houseSanta's Auction
LocationSacramento, California

This exquisite late 19th-century antique tall chest of drawers is masterfully crafted from highly figured bird's eye maple, displaying a warm golden patina and magnificent natural patterning across every surface. Featuring a classic bow-front contour, the chest is configured with two top drawers over four full-width graduated drawers. Each drawer front is fitted with classic turned wooden pulls and centered brass keyhole escutcheons, all supported by a gently scalloped base apron and subtle bracket feet. 32" X 17" X 39"tall Bird's eye maple is a rare, highly prized figure found predominantly in Sugar Maple trees native to Northeastern North America. Characterized by tiny, intricate swirling knots resembling small bird eyes, this figure occurs naturally in only a tiny fraction of maple timber, making large furniture pieces like this chest exceptionally sought after. During the late Victorian era, master cabinetmakers favored bird's eye maple for premium bedroom furnishings due to its exceptional density, luminous light-reflecting quality, and timeless craftsmanship.

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