The History of the Dower Chest
Learn more from Freeman’s American Furniture, Folk and Decorative Arts specialists about the history of the dower chest and why they remain sought after among collectors today.
With roots tracing back to medieval German royalty—and having had so many functions throughout history, from storage and sitting to sleeping—the dower chest has achieved an iconic reputation. But why would such a practical item be so finely crafted and decorated?
Dower chests were cherished gifts most often presented to women as the centerpiece of their dowry. Chests are often inscribed with the names of the daughter and the year of gifting; they commonly held linens, blankets, grains, cured foods, and clothing, and were often placed prominently in a home, either in a kitchen or at the foot of a bed.
Drawing inspiration from medieval German folktales, the motifs adorning these chests are reminiscent of Fraktur. Whether featuring doves, birds of paradise, tulips, mermaids, unicorns, hearts, or intricate geometric designs, each detail on the dower chest is thoughtfully considered and often painted by hand.
These painted embellishments frequently reflect the mores and beliefs of the time in which they were made: domesticity, womanhood, matrimony, and Christian ideals. The chest therefore serves not only as a representation of Pennsylvania-German values, but also a means of preserving cultural tradition while showcasing the value of the daughter and her family’s wealth. Accordingly, these chests evolved into some of the most elaborate and distinctive pieces of furniture in Pennsylvania German households.
![painted-dower-chest.jpg](https://colossal-chubby-zipper.media.strapiapp.com/painted_dower_chest_96b6a15266.jpg)
After the arrival of Germans in Pennsylvania, dower chests were gradually assimilated by the British cabinetmaking tradition, which was characterized by a more subtle and refined craftsmanship. The result was the simple “Kischt”-style chest, featuring one layer of wood and bracket-brace support, which became the most prevalent style in Pennsylvania.
The earlier German “architectural chest” involved an added layer of wood on the front and sides in arching and arcaded patterns, typically featuring two or three arches. The base of these chests often had turned or round feet. Architectural chests were only seen in the Americas in the mid- to late-18th century, eventually giving way to the popularity and ubiquity of the Kischt style.
The most common woods used for dower chests included tulip-poplar, oak, and walnut. To highlight the exquisite color and grain of the wood, these were often left unpainted, and were instead sometimes adorned with inlaid wood, pewter, or sulfur. More affordable and widely available softwoods, on the other hand—such as fir, pine, and poplar—were typically used for chests that were fully painted, usually in vibrant red, yellow, black, green, and blue.
![painted-dower-chest-1.jpg](https://colossal-chubby-zipper.media.strapiapp.com/painted_dower_chest_1_6748cbdfe5.jpg)
Brass and iron were often used in crafting the chests’ hinges, locks, drawer handles, and nails. Long hinges, used throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, added another layer of ornamentation, often using natural motifs and triangular shapes. In the early 1820s, small, square hinges overtook the previously popular long hinge. These new hinges were affixed with screws and were less decorative in appearance. Locks also took on a decorative appearance, with examples including the heart lock, the crab lock, the swan lock, and the plate lock.
Dower chests of notable value in Pennsylvania often include unicorn motifs, which symbolize virginity and maidenhood. These motifs are thought to be inspired by the British coat of arms, which includes a collar and chains, often seen alongside the unicorn on dower chests. A traceable lineage further enhances a chest’s value; knowing the name of the craftsman, painter, or owner adds to the authenticity and significance of the piece.
With unique craftsmanship and a rich heritage, dower chests remain a timeless treasure for contemporary collectors. Their historical and regional significance, alongside their ornate individuality and versatility, make them highly sought-after pieces, allowing collectors to immerse themselves in the artistry and customs of the past.