Art Deco Waterfall Chifferobe Value Guide

The Art Deco Waterfall Chifferobe is a quintessential American furniture piece from the 1930s and 40s, prized for its streamlined 'cascading' front edges. This hybrid piece combines a vertical wardrobe with a chest of drawers, representing a radical shift toward modernism through the use of exotic veneers and early plastics.

What Is Art Deco Waterfall Chifferobe Worth?

The typical price range for Art Deco Waterfall Chifferobe is $450 - $600 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the veneer, as chips or lifting on the rounded waterfall edges can significantly decrease value.
• Presence of original Bakelite handles and pulls, which are highly sought after by Art Deco collectors.
• The quality and rarity of the wood grain patterns used in the decorative veneer overlays.
• Functional integrity of the wardrobe door hinges and the smoothness of the drawer glides.

How to Identify Art Deco Waterfall Chifferobe?

• Look for the signature 'waterfall' edge, characterized by a seamless, rounded curve at the top front of the unit.
• Inspect the hardware for authentic period materials like Bakelite or early molded plastics often used in the 1930s.
• Verify the construction features a combination of a hanging wardrobe section on one side and a stack of drawers on the other.
• Check for the presence of book-matched wood veneers, which were a hallmark of United States manufacturing during this era.

History of Art Deco Waterfall Chifferobe

Chifferobes, combining a wardrobe and a chest of drawers, gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly during the Art Deco period. The 'waterfall' design, characterized by its rounded, cascading edges, was a hallmark of Art Deco furniture, offering a sleek and streamlined aesthetic that was a radical departure from the ornate styles of previous eras. These pieces were often made with exotic veneers and bakelite hardware, reflecting the era's fascination with new materials and modern design.