Date: Circa 1880
Wood: Walnut
Dimensions: 34” W × 14” D × 86” H
A wonderful circa 1880 Victorian walnut hall tree with an unusually decorative openwork design, original old finish, mirror, hat and coat pegs, umbrella stands, and cast-iron drip pans.
This one has a lighter, more open appearance than many Victorian hall trees. The tall shaped back is particularly attractive, with elaborate scroll-cut openings and delicate pierced fretwork surrounding the upper section. A turned finial crowns the top, while numerous wooden pegs provide plenty of room for hats and coats.
The center features a tall mirror above a small shelf and useful drawer. Below, the hall tree is fitted with two circular umbrella or cane holders supported by turned posts, with both cast-iron drip pans still present at the base.
One of the most interesting features is the appearance of the walnut itself. Areas of the wood and/or old finish have developed an unusual striped or figured effect over time. We have not seen quite this same appearance before and cannot say with certainty what caused it, but it gives the piece a distinctive character without taking away from its wonderful Victorian form.
Features
* Circa 1880 Victorian hall tree
* Walnut construction
* Old original finish
* Tall center mirror
* Numerous original-style wooden hat and coat pegs
* Decorative shaped and scroll-cut back
* Delicate pierced fretwork details
* Turned center finial
* Small center shelf
* Storage drawer
* Twin umbrella/cane holders
* Turned supporting posts
* Both cast-iron drip pans present
* Unusual striped/figured appearance to portions of the wood and old finish
* Impressive 86” height with a relatively narrow 34” footprint
Condition
Overall good antique condition, retaining its old finish and showing the expected wear from approximately 140 years of use. There are normal nicks, dings, surface wear, and other age-related marks throughout.
As noted above, portions of the wood and/or finish have an unusual striped appearance. We do not know whether this developed naturally in the wood, resulted from the aging of the finish, or has another cause, so we are leaving it exactly as found and making no assumptions about its origin.
There are a couple of cracks in the back below the mirror. These appear to be age-related and are non-structural. Please review the photographs closely for the overall condition and character of the old finish.
The cast-iron drip pans are present, as are the wooden pegs shown in the photographs.
Shipping: $365 driveway delivery within our normal New England delivery area. Delivery outside New England may be available; please contact us with your ZIP code for a shipping quote before purchasing.