19th century French Ash Louis Philippe Chest of Drawers

Hand sourced by us in France, this chest appears to date from the mid-19th century, around the Louis Philippe period, when furniture tended to favour strong proportions, useful storage and relatively simple decoration.

The timber is believed to be ash, particularly evident across the stripped top where the pale colour and open grain are much easier to see. The drawer fronts have a deeper, warmer tone from their existing finish, which gives a lovely contrast against the freshly waxed top.

There are three deep full-width drawers, each with simple antique brass button handles and a central lock, plus a shallow hidden drawer cleverly worked into the upper frieze. The top section has restrained moulded detailing and a central circular escutcheon, giving the chest interest without making it feel overly formal.

The stripped top has been lightly sanded and clear waxed, while the rest of the chest has been left with its existing aged finish. It's a really useful piece of storage for a bedroom, landing or hallway, with enough presence to work equally well in a living room.

• 19th-century French chest of drawers
  
• Circa 1840–1870
  

Good antique condition with wear, marks, knocks and colour variation consistent with its age and previous use. The locks remain in place with keys. The top has been stripped back, lightly sanded and finished with a fresh coat of clear wax, while the body retains its existing aged finish. Please refer to the photographs for full condition.

The pale ash grain on the top is what really makes this one. It gives a lighter, more relaxed feel than a darker walnut chest, while the concealed top drawer and simple moulded detailing add just enough interest. A really useful old French piece with plenty of storage.