Quartersawn Oak Empire Style Tallboy Dresser
Unbranded (Likely American Furniture Manufacturer) · Furniture > Dressers & Chests of Drawers
Era / Decade
Early 1900s (Circa 1900-1920 Edwardian/Empire Revival)
Material
Solid Quartersawn Oak (Tiger Oak) with oak veneers; wooden turned knobs and brass or iron keyhole escutcheons.
Condition
Good for its age. Visible surface wear, minor scratches, and some finish degradation on the top and drawer fronts. One knob appears slightly misaligned or potentially replaced.
Demand Level
Moderate. Antique oak furniture has a niche but steady following, though currently outpaced by Mid-Century Modern trends.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$150.00 (Low) - $350.00 (Mid) - $550.00 (High if refinished)
Estimated Retail Value
$800.00 - $1,200.00 (Antique store pricing)
Comparable Sales
Similar oak tallboys in un-restored condition sell locally for $150-$250. Professionally restored or 'shabby chic' painted versions can reach $400-$600 depending on the market.
Description
Stunning antique quartersawn oak tallboy dresser featuring five spacious drawers. This piece showcases beautiful 'tiger oak' grain patterns, characteristic of high-quality early 20th-century craftsmanship. Includes original wooden knobs, keyhole details (skeleton key not included), and a classic Empire-style silhouette with sturdy square legs. Ideal for a vintage-inspired bedroom or as a statement piece in a hallway.
Key Features
Quartersawn Oak grain (highly desirable), original hardware elements, solid wood construction, compact vertical storage footprint.
Authenticity Indicators
Hand-cut or machine dovetail joints (likely later machine-cut), wood shrinkage gaps consistent with age, and period-correct quartersawn oak grain. High confidence in late Victorian/early 1900s origin.
Flaws to Note
Finish is dry and has minor water rings or staining on top; minor scuffs on the legs and base; drawers may need wax to slide smoothly; no key for locks.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace for local sale (best for shipping cost avoidance), Etsy for local pickup/specialized vintage, or a local Antique Mall booth.
Selling Tips
Clean with wood soap and apply a high-quality beeswax or Howard Feed-N-Wax to revive the luster without stripping the patina. Take photos in natural light. Use keywords like 'Tiger Oak,' 'Antique Tallboy,' and 'Dovetail Drawers.'