Serpentine Chest Salem area, late 18th century, highly figured mahogany, four graduated serpentine drawers set on ball-and-claw feet, rich mellow old surface, 31-1/2 x 36 x 21-1/2 in. top with large patch at one end (approximately 6 in. of one side of top restored), period legs likely original (reset) and with later returns, some restorations to blocking, patch at one rear toe (color retouch), brasses replaced, typical cracks, surface wear and minor repairs. Notes: May 19, 1854 written inside of waist door, possibly the date when purchased by John Wilson Stout. Lot accompanied by a card found in the base of watch maker John W. Benson of New Brunswick, New Jersey and history of the Stout- Howell family including descendant John Wilson Stout who worked closely with Thomas Edison.. Provenance: Said to be by descent in the Stout - Howell family of New Jersey; Private Collection top with large patch at one end (approximately 6 in. of one side of top restored), period legs likely original (reset) and with later returns, some restorations to blocking, patch at one rear toe (color retouch), brasses replaced, typical cracks, surface wear and minor repairs