Antique Semainier Appraisal

Italian Marquetry Semainier (Tall Chest of Drawers)

This is a vintage five-drawer semainier, or tall narrow lingerie chest, likely of 20th-century Italian origin in the Louis XV revival style. The piece is characterized by elaborate marquetry or inlay work featuring floral rose motifs across the top surface and each drawer front. It is constructed with a combination of woods, featuring walnut or kingwood veneers with cross-banding and book-matching techniques used for the borders. The piece sits on slender cabriole legs terminating in small metal mounts or sabots, with an ornate metal ormolu-style mount centered on the bottom apron. Each drawer is fitted with a circular brass or bronze-toned ring pull and an escutcheon for a keyhole. The top of the chest is slightly stepped and beveled, mirroring the intricate floral patterns seen on the façade. Physically, the item appears to have a high-gloss polished finish typical of mid-century European imports. Visible condition issues include some light surface scratching on the top, minor dulling of the finish on the drawer faces, and potential tarnish on the metal hardware. There are no obvious signs of structural repair or major wood loss, though a close inspection for veneer lifting or drying at the seams would be recommended. This piece exhibits typical decorative craftsmanship associated with high-quality mass-produced European revival furniture from the 1950s-1970s.