Bidspirit auction | Hepplewhite Cherry Inlaid Chest of

Hepplewhite Cherry Inlaid Chest of Drawers, Early 19th Century, Southern (Pelham Estate) - A fine early 19th-century Southern Hepplewhite cherry chest of drawers, descended directly through the family of Confederate John Pelham (1838–1863). Crafted in solid cherry with a warm, mellowed surface, the chest features four full-width drawers outlined in delicate contrasting line inlay, each fitted with its original brass pulls. The case is subtly bowed at the front and stands on shaped French splayed feet, giving the piece an elegant, light stance characteristic of refined Southern cabinetry of the period. The drawer fronts are embellished with finely executed line-and-berry inlaid borders and shield-form escutcheons, all original. The top retains an old, well-preserved surface showing natural age character. Hand-cut dovetails and original backboards reinforce its early 19th-century origin. From the Pelham Estate, Alexandria/Cane Creek area, Calhoun County, Alabama — property descended through six generations from the birthplace household of Lt. John Pelham, CSA, “The Gallant Pelham, ” until the passing of Miss Louise Foster in 2020. 41 in. H, 47 in. W, 21 in. D Condition: Estate condition, as received from the Pelham family line; scattered expected age wear, minor surface marks, and finish mellowing; drawers operate smoothly; original brasses intact; structurally sound.