Did you know? Small chests of drawers are often called bachelor chests

Did you know that small chests of drawers are often called bachelor chests? In the 18th century, single men did not possess much and what they did possess did not require much storage space—thus, the advent of the bachelor chest. However, these chests offered more than just storage for trousers, pants, shirts and collars. In fact, they served a multitude of purposes for the man about town.

With early versions, bachelors could fold over the top and rest it on lopers—the slides that pulled out from the chest. Et voilà, the bachelor had a writing surface. Over time, these chests incorporated a brush slide upon which a young, fashionable gent could tend to his clothes as well as conduct correspondence.

This fine example of a bachelor chest sports such a slide. Well proportioned and immaculately appointed with string inlay, the bachelor who owned this chest wanted only the finest. And so should you. Find this bachelor chest as well as other fine examples only at Mill House Antiques. More than an ordinary experience.