This high chest is a spectacular example of Newport furniture and features the inscription of Benjamin Baker on the back of the piece
Benjamin Baker was active as a very prolific chair maker in Newport from 1760, and also made clock cases, tables and case furniture that was produced primarily for export to the coastal trade. This piece may originally have been designed for export: a recent conservation project revealed that the secondary wood is cedrela odorata—an unusual choice for Newport furniture.
Another special feature is the intaglio (incised) carved petal and leaf motif on the knees; a decorative detail found on Newport high chests and tea tables.
