SOLD - A pair of Swedish Gustavian style painted wood chests from the late 19th century with three drawers, Greek Key frieze, carved rosettes and nicely distressed finish. Created in Sweden during the last quarter of the 19th century, this pair of chest-of-drawers showcases the stylistic characteristics of the Gustavian era. Each chest features a rectangular top with canted protruding corners in the front, sitting above a carved dentil molding. The façade showcases three drawers, a narrow one at the top adorned with an elegant Greek Key frieze, followed by two larger ones, all fitted with Classical brass hardware. Decorated with canted fluted side posts topped with carved rosettes, the chests are each raised on four legs angled in the front. They are painted in a soft color with nice distressing, typical of the Swedish taste for light palettes aiming at brightening the rooms during the dark Scandinavian winters.
The Gustavian style takes its roots in the Louis XVI era. Swedish King Gustav III resided in 1771 in Paris, at the beginning stages of the Louis XVI style. There, he was inspired by French art and fashion. With that in his luggage, he had a strong desire to introduce something similar in Sweden. The country had fine craftsmen with high quality craftsmanship, who produced a simple style with harmonious aesthetics. The Gustavian style was born and has been in vogue ever since. It is incredibly popular, especially in England but also in France and in the USA. Price and age are of course inextricably linked, the older and rarer the higher the price!
With their Classical lines and lovely décor, this pair of Swedish Gustavian style painted chests circa 1890 will make for a wonderful addition to any living room or bedroom!
Place of Origin: Sweden
Period: 19th Century
Dimensions: 39.75"W x 19.25"D x 29.75"H
Inventory Number: XX202
Price: $12,950