Wardrobe

History

In the United States, the wardrobe in its moveable form as a "hanging cupboard" dates back to the early 17th century. At that time wardrobes were an early export product from America to England, because English woodlands were over-harvested or reserved for the Navy. Many early American wardrobes were made of oak and consequently referred to as an Oakley. Later materials would include walnut, mahogany, pine, and other hard and soft woods.

During a large portion of the 18th century, the tallboy was a common layout for wardrobes. In the nineteenth century, the wardrobe began to develop into its modern form, with separate sections for hanging rods, shelves, and drawers. Modern wardrobes often include mirrors and presses or ironing boards. Custom wardrobes may be fitted to the size and shape of the room.

Types of wardrobe

Kas style

Kas, kast, or kasten (pronounced kaz) is a massive cupboard or wardrobe of Dutch origin similar to an armoire that was popular in the Netherlands and America in the 17th & 18th centuries. It was fitted with shelves and drawers used to store linen, clothing, and other valuables and locked by key. They were status symbols and family heirlooms in the Low Countries and imported luxury goods to the American colonies. As such they were often made of quality wood such as cherry, rosewood and ebony that were panelled, carved or painted.