Late 19TH Century Eastlake Dresser with Carrara Marble Top and Beveled Mirror

In the late 19th century, Victorian furniture styles dominated homes in both England and North America. These designs were characterized by excessive ornamentation, exaggerated curves, and heavy draperies that created closed-off, self-contained environments. However, not everyone was a fan of this trend. British architect Charles Locke Eastlake was among the most vocal critics, decrying the over-the-top nature of Victorian design. In response, Eastlake authored Hints on Household Taste in Furniture, Upholstery, and Other Details. Published in 1872 in the United States, the book encouraged a return to simplicity, functionality, and solid craftsmanship. Inspired by his ideas, American furniture manufacturers began producing pieces in the Eastlake style, which featured clean lines, geometric carvings, and understated ornamentation. Though still part of the Victorian era, Eastlake furniture offered a more refined and practical alternative to the prevailing aesthetic.

This American-made Eastlake dresser is a fine example of the movement’s influence. Dating to the late 19th century, it features a stunning light marble top, a hallmark of the era’s appreciation for durable and elegant materials. The dresser is designed with four spacious drawers, joined using the distinctive Knapp joint—a method patented in 1871 and commonly found in North American factory-made furniture of the period. Above the main drawers, two smaller compartments provide additional storage, while the mirror, framed with detailed woodwork, is complemented by two charming sconces. The incised carvings throughout the piece reflect the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define Eastlake designs. This dresser not only serves as a functional storage solution but also stands as a testament to the artistic shift of its time, embodying the balance of beauty and utility championed by Charles Eastlake.

Dimensions: H 82.5” with mirror 35” without mirror W 39.5” D 17.5”