Clothes press 1755 - 1765

This clothes press was crafted by William Vile in the 18th century, primarily from mahogany. Notice the deep, rich tones and swirling grain of the wood. Mahogany, sourced from the Americas, was prized for its stability and workability, allowing for the intricate carvings you see here. The press would have begun as rough planks, carefully sawn and joined to create the carcase. The oval panels and decorative elements were then shaped with hand tools like chisels and gouges, demanding high skill. Consider the labor involved in creating such a piece. From felling the trees to the final polish, each stage required considerable effort. Objects like this offer a window into the hierarchical society of the time, where such luxury was only accessible to the wealthy. By appreciating the materials, making, and social context of this clothes press, we can challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.