Dress
American of Martinsville Dressers: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide
The Ultimate Guide to American of Martinsville Dressers
American of Martinsville is a name synonymous with mid-century modern furniture, renowned for its craftsmanship and distinct design elements. From its humble beginnings in the early 1900s to its status today as a cherished brand among collectors and enthusiasts, the company’s dressers stand out for their quality and aesthetic appeal. This guide will explore the different types of dressers produced by American of Martinsville, their unique features, and why they are sought after in the vintage furniture market.
| Type of Dresser | Features | Applications | Notable Styles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Dresser | 9 drawers, tapered legs, wide oval cutouts | Bedroom, guest rooms | American Modernism |
| Highboy Chest | 6 drawers, ornate design | Bedrooms, master suites | Hollywood Regency |
| Tallboy Dresser | Vertical storage, intricate carvings | Smaller spaces, apartments | Chinoiserie |
| Dresser with Mirror | Mounted options, versatile styling | Bedrooms, dressing areas | Mid-Century Modern |
| Vintage Combinations | Sets including nightstands and armoires | Complete bedroom setups | Various Mid-Century Styles |
History of American of Martinsville
Founded in 1906 by Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee, American of Martinsville started as the American Furniture Company, pivoting from a declining tobacco industry. By the 1920s, the company had expanded its offerings beyond bedroom furniture to include dining sets. The name change to American of Martinsville in the 1950s marked a significant evolution, as the brand gained notoriety for its exquisite craftsmanship and variety of styles, including Hollywood Regency and chinoiserie.
Design Characteristics
American of Martinsville dressers are characterized by their sturdy construction and distinctive design features. Common elements include:
- Lacquered Finishes: Many pieces showcase rich, lacquered walnut or mahogany finishes that enhance their visual appeal.
- Unique Hardware: Wide, oval cutouts serve as drawer pulls, offering a blend of functionality and style.
- Wooden Slats and Brass Accents: Inspired by Scandinavian design, wooden slats adorn hutches and cabinet doors, while brass inlays create a touch of elegance.
These features not only define the aesthetic but also contribute to the durability and functionality of the furniture.
Popular Dresser Models
Some of the most sought-after models from American of Martinsville include:
1. Low Dressers
These dressers typically feature nine drawers and are designed to provide ample storage while maintaining a low profile. Perfect for bedrooms and guest rooms, they combine practicality with modern design.
2. Highboy Chests
Standing tall with six drawers, highboy chests are ideal for those needing vertical storage solutions. Their ornate designs make them a striking focal point in any room.
3. Tallboy Dressers
Tallboy dressers are known for their intricate carvings and vertical orientation, making them suitable for smaller living spaces. Their compact design maximizes storage without occupying excessive floor space.
4. Dressers with Mirrors
These versatile units often come with a mirror that can be mounted in various positions. This adaptability makes them popular in bedrooms and dressing areas.
5. Vintage Combinations
Sets that include dressers, nightstands, and armoires are especially desirable, offering a cohesive look for complete bedroom setups.
Variations Across Models
While American of Martinsville dressers share common design themes, they also offer variations that cater to different tastes and needs. For instance, some models may emphasize minimalist lines while others incorporate more ornate details.
| Feature | Low Dresser | Highboy Chest | Tallboy Dresser | Dresser with Mirror | Vintage Combinations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Drawers | 9 | 6 | 5 | 6 | Varies |
| Height | Low | Tall | Medium | Adjustable | Varies |
| Style | Modern | Ornate | Classic | Contemporary | Eclectic |
| Finish | Lacquered Walnut | Mahogany | Mixed | Lacquered | Various |
Collectibility and Market Trends
As mid-century modern furniture continues to rise in popularity, so does the demand for American of Martinsville dressers. Collectors and enthusiasts appreciate the quality construction and unique design elements that set these pieces apart. Websites like www.chairish.com and www.1stdibs.com showcase a variety of available pieces, often highlighting their historical significance and craftsmanship.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity of American of Martinsville dressers, proper maintenance is crucial:
- Regular Dusting: Use a soft cloth to dust off surfaces regularly to prevent buildup.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade finishes, so position furniture accordingly.
- Use Gentle Cleaners: When cleaning, opt for gentle, pH-balanced cleaners to avoid damaging the finish.
- Periodic Checks: Inspect joints and hardware periodically to ensure everything remains secure and functional.
Related Video
Watch a video about “american of martinsville dresser”
Conclusion
American of Martinsville dressers represent a blend of quality craftsmanship and timeless design. Their history, distinctive features, and rising collectibility make them a treasure in any vintage furniture collection. Whether you are looking for a low dresser, highboy chest, or a complete bedroom set, these pieces are sure to bring character and elegance to your home.
FAQ
What is American of Martinsville?
American of Martinsville is a renowned manufacturer of mid-century modern furniture, celebrated for its craftsmanship and design since its founding in 1906.
What styles do American of Martinsville dressers feature?
Their dressers often feature styles such as Hollywood Regency, chinoiserie, and American modernism, showcasing a variety of design elements.
How can I identify an American of Martinsville dresser?
Look for distinctive features such as lacquered finishes, specific hardware designs, and the company logo, which typically includes an eagle.
Are American of Martinsville dressers high quality?
Yes, they are known for their sturdy construction and high-quality materials, making them durable and long-lasting.
What is the price range for American of Martinsville dressers?
Prices can vary widely based on condition, model, and rarity, with some pieces available for a few hundred dollars and others fetching several thousand.
Where can I buy American of Martinsville dressers?
You can find them on specialized vintage furniture marketplaces such as www.chairish.com, www.1stdibs.com, and www.vintagefurnitureguide.com.
How do I care for my American of Martinsville dresser?
Regular dusting, avoiding direct sunlight, using gentle cleaners, and periodic checks can help maintain your dresser’s condition.
What are common issues with vintage American of Martinsville dressers?
Common issues may include wear and tear on the finish, loose hardware, or structural integrity issues, which can often be repaired by professionals.
Can I find matching pieces for my American of Martinsville dresser?
Yes, many collectors seek out matching pieces, and resources like midcenturywarehouse.com or sweetmodern.com may offer additional items.
What makes American of Martinsville furniture collectible?
Their rich history, quality craftsmanship, unique designs, and the nostalgia associated with mid-century modernism contribute to their collectibility.
