Art Deco Waterfall Buffet Sideboard with Bookmatched Veneers
Unbranded (Likely American-made by manufacturers such as Lane, Cavalier, or Ward Furniture) · Furniture > Sideboards & Buffets
Era / Decade
Late 1930s to mid-1940s; indicated by the distinctive "waterfall" rounded top edge and geometric reeded molding.
Material
Mixed wood construction with high-quality walnut and burled veneers, original brass-toned bakelite or metal hardware, and solid wood frame.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The finish appears largely intact with a nice luster. There is visible minor chipping on the bottom reeded trim and standard edge wear consistent with age. No major structural sagging or deep ring marks are visible on the top.
Demand Level
Moderate to High. While large furniture can be harder to move than smalls, Art Deco pieces are currently seeing a resurgence among younger collectors and mid-century enthusiasts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$350 - $650 (As-is) to $900+ (If professionally restored/refinished)
Estimated Retail Value
$1,200 - $1,800 (Modern equivalent handcrafted solid wood furniture)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded waterfall buffets in original condition typically sell for $300-$500 on local marketplaces. Professionally refinished versions on platforms like Chairish can reach $1,200+.
Description
Stunning Depression-era Art Deco waterfall sideboard featuring dramatic bookmatched walnut veneers. The top showcases a recessed center sections with gracefully rounded 'waterfall' edges. The lower cabinet includes a large upper drawer with horizontal pull handles and a three-panel lower cabinet with chevron-patterned veneer in the center. Reeded Art Deco detailing finishes the top and base, sitting on a plinth-style foundation.
Key Features
Sought-after waterfall silhouette, original hardware, bookmatched veneer patterns, massive storage capacity, and authentic Art Deco aesthetic which is currently trending in 'Grandmillennial' and 'Maximalist' interior design.
Authenticity Indicators
Construction methods such as dovetail drawer joints and the specific 'waterfall' lamination technique are hallmark indicators of 1930s-40s production. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Minor veneer chipping along the bottom reeded base, slight misalignment of the left cabinet door (common with age-related hinge sag), and minor surface scratches on the top drawer face. These are mostly cosmetic and manageable for a vintage buyer.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace (Local pickup is essential due to weight), Chairish (for high-end curated reach), or Etsy (Vintage section). Local antique malls with a 'Mid-Century' focus would also be effective.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Art Deco', 'Waterfall', 'Depression Era', and 'Machine Age'. Highlight the bookmatched veneer in photographs. Take photos in natural light without the figurines on top to show the wood grain. Offer local delivery for an extra fee to significantly increase your buyer pool.