Chest of Drawers 1755 - 1785

This chest of drawers was made by John Goddard sometime in the 18th century. Goddard was part of a prominent family of cabinetmakers in Newport, Rhode Island, a hub of the transatlantic slave trade. The wood itself, likely imported mahogany, would have been harvested and transported by enslaved people. When we consider the opulence of this piece we must acknowledge the brutal labor practices that made such luxurious items available. The chest thus embodies the complex relationship between artistry, commerce, and exploitation in colonial America. The form of the chest, with its serpentine front and ball-and-claw feet, speaks to the prevailing aesthetic of the time. Yet the skill and craftsmanship involved also reflect Goddard's individual talent and the cultural values of the community he was part of. While it's easy to admire the craftsmanship, it's important to remember the broader context of wealth and power that this chest represents, and how it reflects the historical moment it was made in.