The chest of drawers has been a staple in homes for centuries, but did you know that it wasn't always called a "chest of drawers"? In the 17th century, these furniture pieces were known as "presses," derived from the Old French word "prestre," meaning to press or squeeze. It wasn't until the 18th century that the name "chest of drawers" became commonplace.
But the history of these storage solutions goes back even further. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks used chests with small drawers, while 16th century Europeans used tall, wooden cabinets with drawers for storing clothing and linens. By the 1700s, chest of drawers were being mass produced, becoming more affordable and accessible for the average household.
Today, chest of drawers come in a variety of styles and materials, ranging from vintage to modern and from wood to plastic. No matter the style or material, one thing remains the same: they provide an essential storage solution for our clothes and belongings. So next time you open a drawer in your chest of drawers, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of history behind it.
