Summary:
• Item: Mule Chest
• Provenance England, UK
• Circa: 1730
• Period: George II
• Wood: Solid oak
• Rare single-plank moulded top
• Geometric moulded panels
• Single working moulded drawer
• Original candle box & lid
• Traditional Peg construction
• Original iron loop hinges
• Old replacement brass-drop handles
• Original Working locks to lid and drawer (with keys)
• Ebonised ‘A’ & ‘C’ initials under lid
• Original top, sides, drawer linings, back & bottom
• Stunning colour and patination
• Ideal for storing bedding & clothes etc.
• Free delivery to mainland England, Wales & southern Scotland*
• Free 14-day returns policy
Description:
Here is a fine quality antique English George II oak mule chest / blanket box, with geometric moulding, displaying a stunning colour, circa 1730, in excellent condition. This mule chest boasts a rare single-plank moulded hinged top, with three moulded panels to the front, as well as the original initials ‘A’ & ‘C’ painted either side of the lid lock. This was most likely the initials of the original owner of the mule chest. To the bottom, the chest comprises a single working moulded drawer, which is decorated with old replacement brass drop handles on circular backplates. The drawer retains the original working steel lever lock, with working key and original brass escutcheon. The chest lid retains the original iron loop hinges and opens to reveal a clean and dry interior, including the original candle box with lid. The mule chest also boasts a working lock (with working key) to the main storage area. The sides of the chest are adorned with single wide moulded panels; the back retains the original rough-hewn oak backboards. The drawer linings and bottoms are constructed of solid oak, as are the wide floorboards in the base of the chest are all original. The chest has been made using the pegged construction method; this is evident around the body of the frame. The chest is raised on a moulded plinth, terminating on its original length block stiles (feet).
This type of furniture 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, called mules in the 17th and 18th century, were kept in the drawers of the chest. Blankets and bedding were stored in the larger compartment above.
This blanket chest with drawers boasts a rich warm oak colour having been wax-polished in our workshop. As it retains the original polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination; this can only be achieved through age and years of care and cleaning it has received.
This item would look great in a variety of rooms from the hallway, to the living room or bedroom, not only as an ornamental piece but also a useful storage chest.
Condition Report:
Here is a fine quality antique English George II oak mule chest / blanket box, with geometric moulding, displaying a stunning colour, circa 1730, in excellent condition. The chest has been cleaned and wax-polished by hand in our workshop. Nominal old marks to the top, leading edges, tops, sides and front (see photos) but nothing significant considering the age of the item. Such old use marks are inevitable and perfectly acceptable due to its age and use it would have received. The interior is clean, dry, and usable. The iron loop hinges to the lid are original and in excellent condition. The brass drop handles to the drawer are old replacements. The chest includes working steel lever locks (with working key) to the main storage area and drawer. The chest stands on its original stiles (feet) which is rare to see – they are usually cut-down or have worn away. The chest is well constructed, solid in joint and ready to use.
Dimensions:
Height = 78.1cm or 30¾” or 2ft 6¾”
Width (Lid) = 125.6cm or 49½” or 4ft 1½”
Depth (Lid) = 55.5cm or 21⅞” or 1ft 9⅞”
Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.
Ref. 58899