'Parzginer Originals' Mahogany & Brass Dresser by Tommi Parzinger c 1959, Signed

This exquisite work of art is by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, circa 1959, signed 'Parzinger Originals' in one drawer interior. Effortlessly refined, this versatile brass-mounted chest of drawers would make an eye-catching statement in any design connoisseur's interior space.

Parzinger Originals stand out as the most sought-after works by Tommi Parzinger. Charak Modern, which produced many of Parzinger's designs, is also highly desirable but generally not to the same extent as pieces directly created under the Parzinger Originals label. Unsigned pieces can raise concerns among collectors, potentially lowering their desirability and value. Pieces bearing the distinctive Parzinger Originals stamp, like this exquisite Mahogany dresser, are therefore considered the quintessential choice for true connoisseurs of modern art and design. In addition, this dresser includes a Christie's inventory tag found in another drawer. This tag reveals fascinating details about its provenance, indicating that the piece was previously sold at a Modern Design auction at Christie's (in September 1999). Such documentation provides a glimpse into the esteemed history of this Parzinger Originals piece, further enhancing its allure and collectibility.

Ideal for collectors or luxury interior designer clients, this exceptionally rare Parzinger Originals dresser boasts a French polish finish on a two-toned figured Mahogany case with six dovetail constructed drawers displaying diamond shaped accents on the sides and where drawers meet, complimented by Tommi Parzinger's distinctive brass handles in a Hollywood Regency style. The dresser includes four larger reverse-facing handles and two accented round pulls. Parzinger's artful use of pattern imbues this sophisticated piece with a unique character typically unseen in furniture design.

Not depicted in the photos are the interiors of each drawer. The two upper and middle drawers feature removable separators, offering enhanced organization options such as sorting socks, underwear, and lingerie by color or style. It's remarkable how this quality piece from the 1950s provides more functionality than much of today's mass-produced furniture.

Modernized cabriole legs in a darker hue echo the diamond accents, contrasting elegantly with the lighter caramel tone of the cabinet and drawer fronts, a perfect backdrop for the rich and alluring Mahogany wood grain.

We opted for a French polish finish in refinishing this piece, renowned for its luxurious quality and the meticulous application of multiple hand-applied coats of lacquer, which contributes to its status as the most expensive type of finish. This method creates a deep, glass-like texture that beautifully showcases the exotic wood grain while providing excellent protection against daily wear and tear. French polish finishes are typically associated with high-end French Art Deco antiques using exotic woods such as Macassar Ebony, making this application somewhat rare on Mid-Century or later pieces. We are particularly pleased with the outcome of the refinish; continue reading below to learn more about the dresser's condition.

A custom wood crate was specially built for this exquisite collector's item. This not only saves you the expense, which can be upwards of $1,000, of having a crate made but also ensures that this beautiful piece is safely protected during its journey to you.

Parzinger Originals signed pieces are extremely sought after by collectors and are exceptionally rare to find. Whether your home, office or creative studio is designed in Hollywood Regency, Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco, Contemporary or Classical, this fine cabinet will surely be your statement piece taking center stage in your room.

PROVENANCE:

Christie's Modern Design Auction, September 15, 1999

MEASUREMENTS:

H 32.5" x W 72" x D 18"

CONDITION:

This dresser is fully restored to better than new condition. The interior and exterior were both refinished, the exterior with a beautiful french polish, the french polish gives the surface a very smooth glass-like texture and since it is much thicker than regular finishes, it also protects the piece against regular daily use.

The drawers have glide supports and stoppers to keep the drawers more sturdy and from falling out. The interior is clean and free of marks and odors. We left the Christie's inventory tag inside one upper drawer to retain the dressers provenance.

The brass was gently hand polished. There is still very light attractive patina to the brass which is preferred over looking too new. I like to see some age without it having heavy pitting or oxidation. The brass on this dresser is ideal in this sense.

Underneath the refinish there are some light signs of age and prior minor wear. We did not want to disturb the beautiful coloration and wood tone of this original piece - so to preserve the dresser's authenticity while acknowledging its history we solely refinished the exterior polish and did not sand down to the wood.

The last thing to note regarding condition is that I am currently using this dresser at home (it is a perk to bring my favorite pieces home to use while they are awaiting their forever home). At the time of this listing we have been using it for 4 months in a very well-cared for environment and it gets light use. If you have any questions or concerns about this pieces condition when you are about to purchase, let us know and we can confirm if there are any new signs of wear.

Additionally, the piece includes a custom wood crate for secure shipping.