Anonymous local craftsman - Cupboard - Cherry wood - Solid cherry wood cabinet

Beautiful, handmade solid cherry wood chest of drawers with a functional layout: several small drawers on top, larger drawers and a two-door lower cabinet. The piece has a warm red-brown patina, traditional metal fittings, and an original lock with key. Dimensions: H 137 × W 85 × D 48 cm. The cabinet combines practical storage with an artisanal appearance and fits well in country, classical or antique interiors.

Style
The cabinet is best described as country/provincial with clear features of an apothecary or chest of drawers: many small drawers for orderly storage, simple yet graceful curved side panels and a raised backboard. The design is artisanal and functional, typical for provincial furniture.

Dating
Based on form, material and provenance I estimate the dating to be early 20th century (ca. 1900–1930). The ownership history supports an age of over 100 years: the current owner bought the cabinet in the early 1980s from an antique dealer and estimated it to be at most about 50 years old at that time, pointing to a manufacturing date around or before the 1930s.

Renovation and provenance
The cabinet was purchased in the early 1980s in poor condition and subsequently professionally restored. The renovation included stabilization of the construction, restoration of the drawer guides and a conserving finish; the original appearance and solid character have been preserved.

Condition and points to note

• Overall condition: renovated in the 1980s; since then normal signs of use and an authentic patina.
• Surface: warm, even cherry patina; light scratches and colour variations appropriate to age.
• Construction: solid solid-wood build; drawers function properly (note any sticking drawers if present).
• Fittings and key: original lock and key present; metal plates show age-related corrosion but are functional.
• Recommendation: light cleaning and a conserving wax or oil can further enhance the appearance; extensive restoration is not necessary and may affect the antique value.