Casgliadau Arlein

Sarah Ward's chest, Blackwood, early 18th century.

This early eighteenth-century chest has been decoratively carved with motifs such as birds and flowers, which are not normally associated with Welsh furniture. Furthermore, on the centre panel of the chest the words 'Sarah Ward / Her Chest' and the date 1722 have been carved. Although it is not known who Sarah Ward was, it is possible that this chest was made for her as a dower chest at the time of her marriage. The chest was originally from Maesrhyddid mansion near Blackwood in Monmouthshire and may have also been made in the same area.