Swedish Gustavian Style 1850s Painted Wood Chests with Carved Motifs – A Pair

A pair of Swedish Gustavian style painted wood chests circa 1850 with carved frieze, three drawers, fluted and canted side posts and tapered feet. Experience the timeless beauty of this pair of Swedish Gustavian style painted wood chests, crafted circa 1850. These chests exude an air of elegance and charm with their exquisite details and soft color palette, a hallmark of Scandinavian taste.

The chests feature rectangular, slightly raised tops with canted corners in the front, adding a touch of sophistication to their design. At the top of the facade, a beautifully carved broken arch frieze captivates the eye and showcases the superb craftsmanship of the Gustavian style.

Each chest is equipped with three graduating drawers, providing convenient storage space. The drawers are simply carved with delicate cartouches, framing the brass hardware. This understated ornamentation enhances the overall aesthetic of the chests, contributing to their refined elegance.

The canted side posts of the chests feature discreet fluted motifs and carved rosettes, adding a touch of decorative charm. The sides of the chests are plain, allowing the focus to remain on the stunning facade, while the backs are left unfinished, as is typical for pieces of this era.

Elevating the chests are short tapered feet, angled in the front, which contribute to their graceful stance. The chests have been painted in a soft color, a characteristic choice seen in Gustavian style furniture, which adds to their serene and inviting presence.

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!

These Swedish Gustavian style painted wood chests from the mid-19th century are sure to elevate the style and ambiance of any interior space. Their exquisite craftsmanship, refined details, and harmonious color palette make them a perfect addition to both traditional and contemporary settings.