A linen chest is a lidded chest or box, used for storing household linen, bedding and clothing. Typically rectangular, with a hinged top, it may stand on a plinth, bracket feet or short legs, and some examples have one or two drawers in the base, in which case they are often described as mule chests.
Chests were among the earliest and most important pieces of furniture in English homes, and from the medieval period to the eighteenth century they were the principal means of storing textiles. Early examples are of oak, often with carved or panelled fronts, while Georgian and Victorian linen chests were made in oak, elm, pine, mahogany and camphor wood. Camphor and cedar were valued because their aromatic oils helped deter moths. Brides traditionally assembled linen in a dower or marriage chest, sometimes carved or painted with initials and dates. Collectors look for original lids, hinges, locks and feet, good colour and patina, and sound boards without major splits. Replacement lids, later carving and woodworm should be noted. Antique linen chests remain practical in bedrooms and landings, and also serve well as coffee tables or window seats.
