About this restoration

This antique bowfront mahogany chest of drawers is a classic Federal-style piece with a gently curved front, fine banded inlay along the drawer faces, delicate flared feet, and brass hardware that suits the form beautifully. The structure and proportions were always there — what it needed was careful repair and restoration to bring the mahogany and decorative details fully back to life.

What was wrong

The chest arrived stripped down, with the drawers removed and the wood left dry, raw, and visually flat. The finish was gone, the surface had lost warmth and depth, and the fine banding and brass details no longer had the presence they were meant to have. The piece had strong bones, but it was waiting for the right finish work to reveal them again.

What we did

• Repaired and restored the chest from the stripped state starting with the bare wood surface and exposed drawer components.
• Prepared the mahogany carefully so the restored finish would build evenly across the bowfront case and drawer faces.
• Refinished the piece to restore deep, warm mahogany color and bring back the visual depth that suits antique mahogany.
• Preserved and clarified the banded inlay so the drawer detailing reads cleanly and crisply again.
• Refreshed the brass hardware so it complements the restored wood and catches the light properly on each drawer.
• Balanced tone and sheen throughout so the chest reads as one cohesive restored antique rather than a patched surface.

Care tips

• Dust with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid harsh chemical cleaners and abrasive pads.
• Do not place wet items, plants, or drinks directly on the mahogany surface.
• Open drawers gently to protect the restored finish, original structure, and hardware.
• Keep the chest away from prolonged direct sunlight, heat vents, and high humidity.
• Use care around the banded inlay when cleaning so the fine detailing stays crisp.
• If the finish begins to dull or show wear, book maintenance early.