Mid-Century Modern Waterfall Cedar Chest
Storage: Cedar-lined Hope Chest or Blanket Chest · Art Deco/Waterfall Transition (late 1930s-1940s) · Likely manufactured by Lane Furniture (Altavista, VA) or Cavalier
Type
Storage: Cedar-lined Hope Chest or Blanket Chest
Style Period
Art Deco/Waterfall Transition (late 1930s-1940s)
Material
Cedar (interior), Walnut or Mahogany veneer (exterior), engineered core secondary wood
Age Estimate
Circa 1935–1948
Dimensions
Height: 20-24", Width: 44-48", Depth: 18-20"; typical of standard hope chests from this era
Origin
United States; common in American middle-class households of the mid-20th century
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by Lane Furniture (Altavista, VA) or Cavalier
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and interior condition
Description
An iconic example of American 'Waterfall' style furniture, this cedar chest features the signature rounded leading edge and streamlined vertical grain. Designed as a hope chest for storing linens and heirlooms, it combines functional aromatic protection with the glamor of the Art Deco transition.
Key Features
Rounded 'waterfall' top edge, aromatic cedar interior, vertical veneer patterning, and streamlined silhouette
Color & Finish
Varying shades of amber and tawny brown; likely a Nitrocellulose lacquer finish with light age-patina
Construction Method
Factory machine-made production, characterized by steam-bent veneer curves on the top edge
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Machine-cut dovetails (interior drawers, if present), waterfall steam-bent edge, and industrial glue assembly
Wood Grain & Species
Book-matched vertical wood veneers; likely Walnut or Birch on the exterior with aromatic Red Cedar lining
Surface Treatment
Smooth flat-cut veneer with a rounded waterfall front edge; clear lacquer original finish
Upholstery Details
None visible; typical chests of this era were solid wood or veneer-topped
Hardware & Fittings
Inlaid brass or metal lock plate; typical period push-button latch and piano hinge
Origin & Provenance
United States; common in American middle-class households of the mid-20th century
Condition Notes
Good; showing typical surface wear for its age; finish appears intact but may have minor abrasions; structural integrity appears solid
Interesting Facts
During WWII, these chests were popular 'going away' gifts for GIs to give to their sweethearts; Lane 'Hope Chests' are the most collected brand of this type
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Hope Chest' tradition in American marriage customs and the democratization of Art Deco design via mass production
Similar Pieces
Standard flat-top cedar chests; these are distinguished by the absence of the rounded waterfall edge
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a dry soft cloth; avoid commercial waxes with silicone; lightly sand the interior cedar every 2 years to renew the scent
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and interior condition
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable due to longevity; utilizes fast-growing aromatic cedar and demonstrates the durability of early-century veneer work