Illustrated FURNITURE Glossary

Kas / Kasse
Pronounced: KOS
Plural: kasses, kasten

Dutch term for chest or cupboard.

A tall upright cabinet, clothespress, or wardrobe. It usually had Ball feet, a plain heavy cornice, and two doors (often paneled) that opened outward. Often one or two drawers below the storage area.

The heavy cornice served as an extension of the storage area. It lifted off.

Because of their great size and weight, the top, back, and base usually came apart, so they could be moved.

Ball feet in the front; rear legs simply an extension of the stiles. Ball feet were typically found on 17th century European Baroque furniture.

Kasten differ from the German schranks and the French armoires in that kasten originally had no pegs for hanging clothes.

Kasten held most of the family's possessions, particularly its clothing.


America

In America, many kasses are found around New York City, in the Dutch settlements along the Hudson, and in New Jersey.

Woods: pine, cherry, maple, walnut. Some kasses are painted with floral decoration.

Only style cupboard used by the Dutch in this country. Popular 1690-1820.

For more information, see:


Examples:


Photos and their arrangement © 2005 Chuck LaChiusa
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