Mid-Century Modern Highboy (Brasilia-style Tallboy)
Storage: Four-drawer Chest/Highboy · Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950s-1960s) · Likely manufactured by a high-volume mid-century American firm such as Stanley, American of Martinsville, or Bassett; heavily inspired by Oscar Niemeyer's 'Brasilia' line for Broyhill.
Type
Storage: Four-drawer Chest/Highboy
Style Period
Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950s-1960s)
Material
Walnut wood veneers over secondary wood or composite, solid wood legs and trim, with brass hardware and wood starburst inlays.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1965.
Dimensions
Approximately 44" high, 34" wide, 18" deep; standard vertical proportions for a space-saving bedroom dresser.
Origin
United States; typical of North Carolina furniture hubs during the mid-20th century mass-market design boom.
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by a high-volume mid-century American firm such as Stanley, American of Martinsville, or Bassett; heavily inspired by Oscar Niemeyer's 'Brasilia' line for Broyhill.
Value Estimate
$400 - $850 (Retail/Vintage Market); value is higher if the maker is confirmed as a recognizable brand like Broyhill.
Description
This classic Mid-Century Modern highboy epitomizes 1960s optimism with its architectural lines and sculptural details. The piece features a distinct split-design aesthetic: a top drawer punctuated by 'atomic' starburst motifs and three lower drawers unified by iconic vertical 'parabolic' swoops. Standing on elegant tapered legs, it offers a tall, slim profile that maximizes storage without overwhelming a room's footprint.
Key Features
Parabolic sculptural drawer pulls, starburst wood inlays on top drawer, tapered 'stiletto' legs, and horizontal walnut grain matching.
Color & Finish
Medium walnut stain with a satin lacquer finish; exhibits a warm amber patina consistent with aged nitrocellulose lacquer.
Construction Method
Factory machine-made construction typical of post-war American furniture manufacturing, featuring a mix of solid wood structural elements and veneered panels.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
likely machine-cut dovetail drawer joints with stapled or glued back panels; high-quality commercial production standard.
Wood Grain & Species
American Black Walnut; top drawer shows cathedral graining, while lower panels showcase horizontal flat-cut grain. Darker wood (possibly rosewood or ebony stain) used for the starburst inlays.
Surface Treatment
Smooth lacquer finish with decorative vertical parabolic carvings/trim on the lower three drawer fronts; tapered pencil-style legs with metal glides.
Upholstery Details
None (non-upholstered wooden storage piece).
Hardware & Fittings
Top drawer features two convex brass knobs set against dark wood starburst/diamond escutcheons; bottom drawers feature integrated vertical sculptural wood pulls.
Origin & Provenance
United States; typical of North Carolina furniture hubs during the mid-20th century mass-market design boom.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall; visible surface scratches on the top and drawer edges, minor finish wear near the base, and some fading likely from UV exposure. Structural integrity appears sound.
Interesting Facts
The vertical swooping shapes on the drawers were a direct reference to the futuristic architecture of Brasília, the capital of Brazil designed by Oscar Niemeyer, which became a global design sensation in 1960.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Space Age' influence on domestic American life, where high-concept international architecture was translated into affordable, stylish furniture for the middle-class suburban home.
Similar Pieces
Broyhill Brasilia (distinguishable by more exaggerated arches), Kent Coffey Perspecta (distinguishable by rosewood accents), and Stanley 'Poly-Clad' lines.
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a soft microfiber cloth; use high-quality lemon oil or beeswax sparingly to prevent the vintage veneer from drying; avoid modern silicone-based sprays.
Value Estimate
$400 - $850 (Retail/Vintage Market); value is higher if the maker is confirmed as a recognizable brand like Broyhill.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable as a vintage heirloom; reusing mid-century furniture prevents waste and avoids the environmental cost of new flat-pack manufacturing.