Highboy

A Highboy is a tall, often antique, chest of drawers, typically consisting of a lower section of drawers (the 'base' or 'chest') and a taller upper section also with drawers (the 'top' or 'case'), standing on legs. The design often features decorative elements, such as carved details, molding, and elegant hardware. Highboys were a popular form of furniture, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries, used primarily for storing clothing and linens. The height and size of highboys make them a statement piece, contributing to the overall aesthetic of a room and reflecting a time of craftsmanship and formality in home decor. Often crafted from woods like mahogany, walnut, or cherry, the Highboy represents a functional and decorative embodiment of classic furniture design.

Highboy meaning with examples

• The antique shop held a stunning mahogany Highboy, its polished surface reflecting the sunlight. Its delicate carvings and brass hardware were a testament to the skilled artisans of the past. It would be a stunning addition to a bedroom, its drawers offering ample storage. A Highboy like this could be used for years and would improve in value. It's a prime example of the refined aesthetic popular during the Colonial period.
• Sarah inherited her grandmother's cherry wood Highboy, a cherished family heirloom. Each drawer held memories and held significant importance in her life. Carefully maintaining its finish became a labor of love. The Highboy provided generous space for linens and clothes, and was a beautiful centre point. It was a reminder of her heritage and a tangible link to her ancestors, all of whom appreciated the functionality.
• The interior designer suggested a Highboy as a focal point for the guest room. Its vertical lines added height to the space, making it seem larger. They selected one with a classic design that blended well with the room's colour palette. The highboy's many drawers provided practical storage solutions. They selected a wooden one. It blended well with the room.
• In a period drama, the meticulously decorated bedroom featured a grand walnut highboy. The character's finely tailored clothing was stored within its spacious drawers. The highboy's presence immediately communicated a sense of wealth and refinement, setting the scene. The actors would use the chest multiple times. Each scene the chest was there, gave it an elegant feel.
• The auction catalogue advertised an exceptionally rare Highboy with serpentine drawers and cabriole legs. Collectors eagerly anticipated the bidding. This was a prize for any collectors. The anticipated final price reflected the highboy's historical significance and superb craftsmanship. The Highboy was a collectors item.