Chest Over Drawers
Attributed to John Bieber

Details
Title
Chest Over Drawers
Artist/Maker
Attributed to John Bieber
Date
1793
Medium
Poplar, pine, and polychrome paint
Dimensions
29 1/8 x 50 1/2 x 23 1/2 inches
Credit
Purchase with funds from the Decorative Arts Acquisition Endowment
Accession #
1984.52
Location
Currently not on view
Pennsylvania Dutch dower chests were personal objects custom-made for a young person to store valuables and keepsakes. Each chest is unique, as they were an expression of individuality for the owner, in this case, a woman named Elizabeth Behm. This also makes them the most expressive and decorated items from the Pennsylvania Dutch region. This chest is attributed to John Bieber, who often painted large, bold, flat hearts and vibrant designs on his work. This chest is an outstanding example of Pennsylvania Dutch Americana.