Highboy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
highboy
[haษชbษษช ]
Definition
furniture design
A highboy is a type of tall chest of drawers, typically featuring a series of drawers stacked one on top of the other, often with a cabinet-like top section that may have doors. The design dates back to the late 17th century and became particularly popular in colonial America. Highboys are usually constructed from hardwoods and may exhibit ornate carvings and decorative elements. They serve not only as functional storage pieces but also as statement furniture in a room.
Synonyms
chest of drawers, dresser, tallboy.
Examples of usage
- The antique store had a stunning highboy with intricate carvings.
- She inherited a beautiful highboy from her grandmother, which is now in her living room.
- Highboys were commonly used in bedrooms during the colonial period.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- In colonial America, highboys were a sign of wealth and status, often used by the upper class to display their possessions.
- They were popular in the 18th century and often handcrafted by skilled artisans, reflecting local styles and materials.
- Highboys are sometimes referred to as 'high chests', emphasizing their vertical design and practicality.
Cultural Influence
- This style of furniture often appears in movies and literature set in earlier centuries, symbolizing elegance and tradition.
- Highboys showcase intricate designs, often featuring carvings that tell a story or represent the owner's pride in craftsmanship.
- They continue to inspire modern furniture design, blending functionality with traditional aesthetics.
Pop Culture
- Highboys have appeared in various TV shows and films as symbols of affluence and classic style, often found in the homes of wealthy characters.
- Theyโve been featured in design magazines as portions of antique collections, showcasing the enduring appeal of vintage furniture.
- In design competitions, new interpretations of highboys often highlight innovative use of space and materials, merging traditional with contemporary.
Origin of 'highboy'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'highboy' comes from the combination of 'high' and 'boy', with 'boy' referring to a type of chest.
- This furniture style first appeared in the late 17th century in England, showcasing craftsmanship and elegance.
- Initially, 'highboys' were variations of 'lowboys', which are shorter and often used as side tables.
The term 'highboy' originated in the late 17th century, derived from a combination of 'high' and 'boy', where 'boy' referred to a type of cabinet or furniture piece. The design emerged as furniture craftsmen began to elevate traditional lowboy chests by stacking them and adding a decorative top section, creating a tall and elegant form. This furniture style became especially fashionable in colonial America and was often associated with wealth and sophistication. Highboys were commonly made from rich hardwood species such as mahogany, oak, and walnut, showcasing the craftsmanship skills of the period. Throughout the 18th century, highboys became more ornate, reflecting the Rococo and Federal styles, making them prized possessions in both homes and museums.