origin and evolution of the dresser as a moveable and decorative piece, which became one of the enduring hallmarks of the national tradition, was not the same in all parts of the country. It probably did not start as a sophisticated piece, but evolved from other forms that were current, combining features found on articles intended for either storage or display. In the south-east a built-in style of plain construction, but with elaborate pierced decoration to the ends on view as the room was entered, formed part of a regional type that had developed around the border area in the first half of the 17th century. In the south and west the forerunners may have been free-standing utilitarian dairy dressers, like the 'frame for shelves' recorded in 1682, and been open underneath like the 'table dresser' referred to in the same document..."

	"Welsh Furniture 1250-1950"

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