Story of a Philadelphia Corner Cupboard

My mother famously paid $100 for this corner cupboard at an auction in 1958. It was the first major purchase she made for their farm house in Belle Meade, NJ. She loves to tell the story about how her hand was shaking as she wrote the check, because she was so overwhelmed by her big purchase, the biggest she had ever made, besides the house. Needless to say, there were no regrets. This piece has been cherished ever since.

The cupboard dates back to circa 1840 and was hand made from solid cherry in Philadelphia, PA. Never having been refinished, the patina on the almost 200 year old wood is about as good as it gets. I adore my mother for introducing me at a young age to exceptional pieces like this one. Without even realizing it, she showed me an appreciation for beauty, workmanship and history. Many of the pieces she chose were simple, but exquisitely crafted and rich in character.

We use the cabinet for the Royal Copenhagen china (another one of my mother's obsessions, and which has become one of mine as well)

A close-up showing the rough hewn pine back and shelves. Even the smell of the old wood tells a story. I love every inch of this piece. I love the china too, but that's a story for another time.

A close-up close-up

I live for simple, sweet details like this

A slightly different design on the lower latch appears to be original, but it's not certain. Idiosyncrasies like this just add to the charm.

I love all the little nicks and bruises....and the simple heart shaped detail at the base. Perfectly imperfect.

Another close-up showing the gorgeous wear and tear on this beloved piece. So much character here, you simply cannot buy something new and get this kind of look. I’m in love.