Waterfall Art Deco Dresser Value Guide

1940s Art Deco Heywood Wakefield RIO Highboy Dresser Blonde ...
Waterfall Art Deco Dresser
Estimated Value
$350 – $420
Period
1930-1940
Origin
United States
Materials
Birdseye Maple, wood veneer

This American-made dresser is a quintessential example of 1930s-1940s Art Deco design, defined by its signature rounded 'waterfall' front edges. Crafted with striking Birdseye Maple and wood veneers, it represents the era's shift toward mass-produced luxury for middle-class homes.

What Is Waterfall Art Deco Dresser Worth?

The typical price range for Waterfall Art Deco Dresser is $350 - $420 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • The condition of the Birdseye Maple veneer, as chips or lifting significantly reduce the $350-$420 price range.
  • Presence of original decorative pulls and handles, which are difficult to replace with period-accurate matches.
  • The clarity and preservation of the original finish, as heavy refinishing can sometimes detract from the vintage patina.
  • Structural integrity of the waterfall curve, which is prone to damage if exposed to high humidity.

How to Identify Waterfall Art Deco Dresser?

  • Look for the distinctive seamless, rounded curve where the top of the dresser meets the front face.
  • Verify the use of Birdseye Maple and wood veneers, which provide the characteristic high-contrast grain patterns.
  • Inspect for original Art Deco hardware, typically featuring geometric shapes or early plastic accents like Bakelite.
  • Check for construction techniques consistent with 1930-1940 United States manufacturing, such as specific drawer dovetailing.

History of Waterfall Art Deco Dresser

The waterfall design, characterized by its rounded, flowing edges, was a popular style in American Art Deco furniture during the 1930s and 1940s. It was a mass-produced style, making it accessible to many middle-class homes and is highly collectible today for its unique aesthetic and historical significance.

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