Serpentine Chest of Drawers / Bombe Commode
Storage (Dresser / Chest) · Traditional / Mediterranean Revival (Late 20th Century to Contemporary) · Hooker Furniture
Type
Storage (Dresser / Chest)
Style Period
Traditional / Mediterranean Revival (Late 20th Century to Contemporary)
Material
Hardwood solids with burl wood veneers over engineered wood substrates, complemented by cast metal hardware
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to early 21st century (circa 1990-2010)
Dimensions
Approximately 36 inches high, 42 inches wide, and 20 inches deep, falling within the standard range for a large accent chest or small dresser
Origin
Manufactured in Asia for Hooker Furniture, a prominent American furniture brand headquartered in Virginia
Designer/Maker
Hooker Furniture
Value Estimate
Estimated retail secondary market value between $400 and $900 depending on local demand, condition, and platform
Description
This striking three-drawer chest features a gently undulating serpentine serpentine front profile and richly figured burl wood veneers. The heavy molding at the crown and base, combined with flared bracket feet and ornate metal hardware, gives the piece a substantial presence inspired by traditional European antiques. It serves as both a functional storage piece and a bold decorative statement for a living room, hallway, or bedroom.
Key Features
Serpentine-contoured drawer fronts, highly figured burl wood veneer panels, elaborate antiqued brass hardware, and sturdy bracket feet
Color & Finish
Deep warm walnut stain with antiqued distressing, hand-rubbed finish, and darker shading along the edges and recessed profiles
Construction Method
Factory manufactured using modern woodworking machinery and assembly techniques, designed for commercial durability with traditional aesthetic detailing
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard modern machine-cut joinery including pinned and stapled components with English dovetail drawer construction
Wood Grain & Species
Exotic burl wood veneer displaying a highly figured, swirling grain pattern on the drawer fronts
Surface Treatment
Satin polyurethane or lacquer protective topcoat with factory-applied antiquing and distressing to emulate antique patination
Upholstery Details
Not applicable
Hardware & Fittings
Ornate antiqued brass-finished cast metal bail pulls with matching central decorative escutcheons on each drawer
Origin & Provenance
Manufactured in Asia for Hooker Furniture, a prominent American furniture brand headquartered in Virginia
Condition Notes
Visually very good condition with typical minor surface wear consistent with light residential use; structurally sound with functioning drawers
Interesting Facts
Hooker Furniture, founded in 1924 by J. Clyde Hooker Jr., is renowned for importing high-end styled occasional furniture and whole-home collections that replicate expensive European antiques at an accessible price point
Cultural Significance
Reflects the late 20th-century consumer demand for traditional European aesthetic grandeur combined with modern manufacturing convenience in American homes
Similar Pieces
Bontempi, Lexington, and Henredon traditional commodes and serpentine chests, distinguished by higher-end solid wood construction and hand-carved details
Care & Maintenance
Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth; avoid silicone-based polishes and protect the surface from moisture and direct sunlight to preserve the veneer and finish
Value Estimate
Estimated retail secondary market value between $400 and $900 depending on local demand, condition, and platform
Sustainability Notes
Utilizes veneer technology to maximize the aesthetic yield of valuable burl timber resources while relying on standard commercial mass-production forestry and manufacturing practices
Notes
Hooker