Fine Arts

Object of desire: An ‘open sesame’ chest

Maritime chest of drawers keeps contents safe on the high seas

The maritime chest of drawers, which was designed for ships with a swivel mechanism and splayed feet so that it retained its contents and kept its balance in choppy waters

In Waterford city last week I came across this wonderful piece of design and craftsmanship at RJ Keighery Antiques and Auction Rooms, and was struck by the obvious fact there were only handles on one side to open the drawers.

On closer inspection the ingenuity and cleverness of the design became apparent. It is known as a maritime chest of drawers or an ‘open sesame’ chest, designed for ships with a swivel mechanism and splayed ...