Lane Waterfall Cedar Chest Value Guide

The Lane Waterfall Cedar Chest is a quintessential piece of American Art Deco furniture, celebrated for its distinctive rounded edges and aromatic cedar lining. Originally marketed as 'hope chests' for young women, these 1930s-1940s heirlooms combined functional pest-repellent storage with high-style mahogany and walnut veneers.

What Is Lane Waterfall Cedar Chest Worth?

The typical price range for Lane Waterfall Cedar Chest is $350 - $450 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Exterior condition is paramount, as damaged or lifting mahogany and walnut veneers significantly decrease the $350-$450 market value.
• The presence of original hardware, including the Art Deco style handles and the safety-updated lock mechanism, increases desirability.
• Rarity of the specific veneer inlay pattern, with more intricate geometric designs commanding prices at the higher end of the spectrum.
• Structural integrity of the 'waterfall' curve, ensuring there are no cracks or separations in the bentwood frame.

How to Identify Lane Waterfall Cedar Chest?

• Look for the 'Lane' brand mark or serial number stamped into the bottom or inside the lid, which can be read backward to determine the production date.
• Identify the signature 'Waterfall' edge, characterized by a seamless, rounded curve where the top meets the front panel.
• Check for the original felt-lined interior tray and the presence of the authentic Art Deco geometric veneer patterns on the exterior.
• Verify the interior is lined with solid aromatic red cedar, a hallmark of the Lane Furniture Company's construction.

History of Lane Waterfall Cedar Chest

Lane cedar chests gained immense popularity throughout the 20th century, becoming a cherished part of many American homes. The "Waterfall" design, characterized by its rounded, flowing edges and often intricate veneer patterns, was a signature style during the Art Deco period. These chests were frequently given as gifts to young women, intended to store items for their future homes, hence the common name "hope chest." The aromatic cedar lining served as a natural repellent for moths and other pests, preserving textiles for decades.