PROBABLY CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, 1740-1780

Spice cabinets were a mark of affluence and refinement in the homes of prosperous Pennsylvanians during the 18th century. A sophisticated miniaturized form, many were produced in Chester County. This example shares construction methods characteristic of the region, including the use of walnut, the assembly of the drawer dividers and outset hinges. This particular example blends two construction practices associated with different time periods. The use of drawer bottoms with flat boards fitting below the dovetailed sides and nailed in place is a construction technique largely employed during the first half of the 18th century. The bracket feet, however, are constructed with shaped glue blocks, a method seen on urban forms from the second half of the century (Lee Ellen Griffith, The Pennsylvania Spice Box (West Chester, Pennsylvania, 1986), pp. 16-18).