American, born England, 1771 - 1848

Gentleman’s Dressing Commode

The gentleman’s dressing commode—or chest with two or three rows of drawers that are elevated off the ground—is an extremely rare form in American furniture. This one is rarer still. That’s because it is the only such commode documented or attributed to the shop of Boston cabinetmaker Thomas Seymour. The upper drawers have compartments with lids. These were intended to hold dressing and shaving articles. This storage attests that this piece was made for a man’s use. Its low height and standard ornament suggest this commode was intended for display in a private space.