Chest of drawers, English, c. 1660

Oak, the top has a moulded cornice and below are four drawers, shallow and deep alternatively, the front being decorated with applied geometric mouldings with split balusters of 'bobbin' turning in pairs on the stiles. Panelled sides and moulded base resting at the front on two spherical feet (a modern addition) and at the back on plain supports. Loop brass handles. Drawer fronts of oak, sides of deal (or possibly elm), running in grooves.

Bequeathed to the V&A by Mrs Aymer Vallance, 1929.

Notes from R.P. 29/9235 (see also 28/1471) bequeathed by Mrs Aymer Vallance, 'Renovated'

1928 Correspondence
Vallance explains "my wife wants the museum to have this most valuable chest of drawers - a very fine example. It is illustrated at top of p.86 in 'The Studio' extra volume 'Art in England' 1908" (Vallance is the author of The Studio article).

7/4/28 O Brackett records
that Clifford Smith considers the chest of drawers "very good and acceptable".

16/10/29 Gift Form
lists the 8 items donated by Mr Vallance

The 9 items given were selected at the Vallance home, Stoneacre, Otham, Maidstone by the Director.

Letter, Vallance to V & A
reminds the museum "to mark the chest of drawers presented by Mrs Aymer Vallance. My wife had it in use to the last but it was her final desire that it goes to the V & A Museum".

28/9/29 Minute, Eric Maclagan following inspection of the Vallance Collection
"The woodwork is….valuable and important…Mr Vallance is…offering a very beautiful Charles II chest of drawers of considerable value".

11/10/29 Letter, Vallance to Museum
makes the selected items available for delivery to the V & A. Regarding the chest, he notes "Charles II, chest of drawers - Bought it in Lynster Kent".

Condition of Chest on arrival
noted as "1 chest of drawers (2 keys)…chest chipped - rubbed feet. Worm eaten & damage"

W.76:5-1929