Original English Carved Oak Antique Mule Dower Trunk Coffer Blanket Chest Circa 1700's

Handsome Original English Antique Oak Mule Chest Circa 1700's

Width: 130 cm x Depth: 49 cm x Height: 76 cm

Outstanding 18th-century solid oak Dower Mule chest in original untouched condition.

This special and rare chest has three moulded panels to the front and to the sides, with intricate hand carvings around the top border

The beautiful two-plank top is heavy and has the original butterfly iron hinges that opens to reveal spacious storage and retains its original candle box, which is quite a rarity these days for a piece that dates back to the 1700s. This untouched original mule chest has two dovetailed drawers at the base, terminating on original untouched, sturdy bracket feet. The brassware is original and intact, however, the key is absent

Condition: There are historic knocks, marks, cracks and scratches as is to be expected an item of it age, and evidence of extinct historical wood worm which has now been treated as a precaution.

This stunning dower chest retains the original polish, with a fine warm caramel and chocolate hues and patination; that can only be achieved through age and years of care and cleaning it has received.

History of the Mule Chest: A type of furniture like this would have primarily been used for storing bedding and clothes. In the eighteenth century, built-in wardrobes did not exist! A mule chest was often the only item of furniture that a family-owned. It is believed that such chests were called “mule chests” because slippers, were kept in the drawers of the chest. Blankets and bedding were stored in the larger compartment above.


Free Specialist Delivery to most of mainland UK.
A delivery surcharge will apply for Ireland and higher northern areas in Scotland.

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