Chest c. 1600

This chest, of unknown date and maker, testifies to the central importance of woodworking in pre-industrial life. The material is oak, likely harvested locally and then laboriously hand-worked. Notice the way its natural grain is emphasized by the craftsman’s techniques, the flat panels and framing members assembled with careful joinery. Mortise-and-tenon joints are used to slot pieces of wood together, cut and fitted with precision so the chest is robust, designed to last generations. The decoration is minimal but effective, those simple carved arches and inlaid contrasting woods offering a touch of refinement. This object speaks of the relationship between people and their material surroundings. It reminds us that everything we have comes from the earth, by way of human effort. Appreciating the craft of this chest helps us see the deep roots of design in the material world.