Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest Value Guide

1930s Montgomery Ward Art Deco Cedar Hope Chest | Chairish — Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest

Estimated Value

$650 – $800

Period: 1930s-1940s
Origin: United States
Materials: Cedar, hardwood veneer
Category: Lane cedar chest

The Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest is a quintessential piece of American furniture history, originating from the Lane Company's Altavista, Virginia factory. These 'hope chests' are highly collectible for their iconic waterfall silhouette and their historical role as sentimental gifts for storing bridal heirlooms.

What Is Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest Worth?

The typical price range for Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest is $650 - $800 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

Condition of the exterior veneer, as chips or lifting in the delicate hardwood layers significantly decrease market value.
Presence of the original lock mechanism; however, note that many have been removed or replaced for safety compliance.
The preservation of the interior cedar scent and the absence of staining or moisture damage to the wood.
Rarity of the specific Art Deco inlay patterns or the presence of original decorative hardware and casters.

How to Identify Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest?

Look for the 'Lane' brand stamp or serial number usually burned into the interior of the lid or the bottom of the chest.
Identify the 'waterfall' edge, which features a distinctively rounded front top edge rather than a sharp 90-degree angle.
Check for the original felt-lined interior tray and the specific cedar aroma characteristic of authentic Virginia cedar construction.
Examine the exterior for book-matched hardwood veneers, a hallmark of 1930s and 1940s Art Deco craftsmanship.

History of Lane Art Deco Cedar Chest

The Lane Company began in 1912, founded by John Lane in Altavista, Virginia. They quickly became known for their cedar chests, which were often given as gifts to young women for storing linens and heirlooms, hence the name 'hope chest'. The Art Deco period, from the 1920s to 1940s, heavily influenced Lane's designs, resulting in popular pieces like this 'waterfall' style chest, characterized by its rounded edges and sleek lines.