If the handles are original it will give a very good indication of the age of the chest. A pear drop handle will suggest the chest will be William and Mary or Queen Anne period whereas a swan neck handle would be found on pieces that post date 1750. Drawer mouldings will also give an indication of the age of the chest.

What is the difference between a chest of drawers and a dresser?

First, you should know the difference between a chest of drawers and a dresser. However, a dresser is usually wide and short, while a chest of drawers is narrow and tall. Dressers are meant to provide a space you can dress in front of – the top serves as a table to place clothes and provides space for a mirror.

Whats a gentlemans chest?

A gentlemans chest is so named for its tall cabinet section that offers enough length to hang dress pants, ties, suits, and other hanging clothing. The design features a column of drawers with a large cabinet for hanging clothes beside the drawers.