Eastlake Style Waterfall Vanity with Burl Walnut Inlay
Unbranded · Furniture > Bedroom Furniture > Vanities
Era / Decade
1930s-1940s Art Deco/Depression Era
Material
Walnut and burl wood veneers over secondary wood (likely poplar or gumwood), cast metal hardware, and wooden casters.
Condition
Fair to Poor. Significant veneer chipping on the top edge and drawer fronts. Scratches, water marks, and surface grime. Original mirror is missing. Historical hardware is partially missing or mismatched.
Demand Level
Moderate. High demand for 'fixer-upper' projects among the 'shabby chic' or furniture flipping community, but low demand as a ready-to-use piece in this condition.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$50 - $150 (as-is condition); $350 - $550 (fully restored)
Estimated Retail Value
$400 - $600 (original equivalent value)
Comparable Sales
Similar unrestored waterfall vanities typically sell for $75-$125 in local markets. Professionally painted or refinished versions can reach $400-$600 depending on the quality of the finish and inclusion of the mirror.
Description
Antique Art Deco era waterfall vanity featuring exquisite book-matched burl walnut veneers and ornate hand-carved acanthus leaf details on the stiles. This piece includes a central recessed kneehole and multiple storage drawers. It sits on original turned legs with wooden casters. While the original mirror is currently absent, the frame retains its structural integrity and historical charm.
Key Features
High-quality burl walnut grain, ornate Victorian-revival carvings, book-matched veneer patterns, and original casters. Highly desirable 'Waterfall' rounded edge profile common in Depression-era furniture.
Authenticity Indicators
Construction methods such as dovetail drawer joints, original wood casters, and the specific use of thick 1930s-style veneers. High confidence of authenticity as a period piece.
Flaws to Note
Significant veneer loss on the edges and drawer faces; missing original mirror and mirror supports; heavy surface wear; aged finish; missing drawer hardware on the right-hand side.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local Antique Mall. Large furniture is best sold locally to avoid high shipping costs.
Selling Tips
Market this as a 'Project Piece.' Use keywords like 'Antique Waterfall Vanity,' 'Depression Era,' and 'Burl Wood.' If you don't intend to restore it, clean it with wood soap to show the grain potential. Mention that it would make a great desk conversion.