Victorian Scottish Satin Birch Chest Of Drawers With Plinth Drawer (c.1870–1890)

A beautifully proportioned Victorian Scottish chest of drawers crafted from richly figured satin birch, offering elegant storage and exceptional 19th-century craftsmanship. A rare and characterful piece sourced from an original Scottish estate.

Key Features

• Authentic Victorian Scottish satin birch chest of drawers

• Dates from circa 1870–1890

• Two short drawers over three full-depth storage drawers

• Integrated plinth drawer concealed within the skirting base

• Warm honey-toned satin birch with attractive natural grain

• Traditional dovetail drawer construction throughout

• Original turned wooden knobs and brass keyholes

• Elegant bullnose top with concave under moulding

• Strong, durable cabinetmaking typical of Scottish furniture

• Sourced from a private Scottish estate

Full Description

This Victorian Scottish satin birch chest of drawers dates from approximately 1870 to 1890 and exemplifies the refined craftsmanship associated with late 19th-century Scottish cabinetmaking. Constructed from highly prized satin birch, the piece displays a soft golden hue and beautifully figured grain that subtly shimmers as it catches the light, lending warmth and sophistication to both traditional and contemporary interiors.

The drawer configuration is both practical and visually balanced, featuring two smaller upper drawers above three generously sized full-depth drawers. A particularly desirable feature is the integrated plinth drawer, discreetly built into the skirting base, which enhances storage capacity while maintaining an elegant and grounded silhouette.

Refined design elements such as the bullnose top with concave under moulding, original turned wooden knobs, brass keyholes, and finely executed dovetail joints all speak to the quality and authenticity of the piece. Satin birch was especially favoured by Scottish furniture makers for its strength, smooth working properties, and luminous finish, making examples like this increasingly sought after today.

A sustainable and characterful alternative to modern storage furniture, this antique chest of drawers is ideal for bedrooms, hallways, or refined living spaces, offering both timeless style and functional elegance.

Related Victorian Furniture & Antique Storage

This Victorian Scottish chest of drawers sits beautifully alongside other period examples within our Victorian furniture collection, where you’ll find further antique storage pieces and carefully sourced 19th-century furnishings of similar character and quality.

Dimensions

Height: 106cm
Width: 103cm
Depth: 48cm

(All measurements are approximate)

Materials

• Solid satin birch

• Traditional Victorian joinery

• Hand-cut dovetail drawer construction

• Original wooden knobs

• Brass keyhole escutcheons

Condition

As with all genuine antique furniture, this piece has been used and cherished over many years. There are signs of age-related wear, surface marks, natural patina, fading, and historic repairs consistent with its Victorian origins. These elements contribute to its authenticity and character. Overall condition is good and entirely commensurate with age.

Origin / Period

• Origin: Scotland

• Provenance: Private Scottish estate

• Period: Victorian

• Date: Circa 1870–1890

Styling Suggestions

This satin birch chest of drawers works beautifully in a Victorian or Georgian-inspired bedroom, paired with soft linens and muted wall tones. It also complements contemporary interiors, where its lighter timber and elegant proportions provide contrast against modern textures. Ideal for use as bedroom storage, hallway organisation, or statement antique furniture in a dressing room.

FAQ

Is this chest of drawers an original Victorian piece?
Yes, this is a genuine Victorian chest of drawers dating from circa 1870–1890, with period construction methods and materials.

What is a plinth drawer?
A plinth drawer is a concealed drawer built into the base or skirting of the furniture, providing additional hidden storage without altering the overall appearance.

Is satin birch a durable wood?
Yes, satin birch was favoured by Scottish cabinetmakers for its strength, stability, and attractive finish, making it both durable and visually appealing.

Can this be used in a modern home?
Absolutely. Its clean lines, warm tone, and elegant proportions allow it to sit comfortably in both traditional and modern interiors.

Unique Points

• Rare Scottish satin birch example

• Integrated plinth drawer for added storage

• Original estate provenance

• Lighter-toned Victorian furniture, ideal for modern interiors

• Sustainable antique alternative to modern cabinetry