Antique Folding
Many fine examples of antique bookcases
When looking for antique bookcases, domestic pieces will generally date from as far back as 1700 when case furniture began to be produced in serious quantity. Bookcases of course can be traced back as far as the late 16th century and there are some very fine examples at Oxford University’s Bodleian Library. Early examples of bookcases were usually made of oak, and tended to be plain rather than decorative. Very early books would be laid flat on the shelves, and it was only with the advent of the print industry that spines and titles would be displayed outwards.
A walnut bureau bookcase from the time of Queen Anne (1702-14) is a very fine example of an early antique bookcase. Pieces like this formed part of a revolution in furniture making in Britain, with the arrival of Huguenot craftsmen expelled from France at the end of the 17th century and these new forms of manufacture remained throughout the 18th century. The bureau bookcase was an encased set of shelves set upon a bureau or writing desk. The desk had a fold down flap with sets of drawers arranged beneath. The cabinet placed on top to hold the books had two often mirror glazed doors which helped to encourage light. These cabinets were often pedimented on top to give an architectural quality to the piece.
As the 18th century progressed, varying types of antique bookcase evolved. Much larger architectural pieces were being made for libraries and the smaller compact bureau bookcase for the drawing room. Walnut had now become very scarce and mahogany was being imported as its replacement. The bookcase was not only made to showcase books but also to showcase the art of the cabinet maker and many fine examples remain from the time of George III onwards. Door fronts were generally glazed within astragal mouldings and beading and these ornamental glazed doors could range from fairly plain to very elaborate.
One of the most impressive bookcases is the breakfront. These are large architectural pieces with broken pediments and moulded cornices, usually made from mahogany. They can be fully or half glazed with cupboards rather than bureaux underneath, usually with three or four sets of shelves, with the central set pushed forward or breaking the front of the piece.
Towards the end of the 18th century, designer decorators like Robert Adam incorporated furniture like the secretaire cabinet and secretaire bookcase into their general house design. The much lighter satinwood had become popular during this later period and Adam employed craftsmen and artists to decorate furniture with marquetry inlay or painted neoclassical motifs and garlands of flowers. Some pieces were very bright and colourful indeed.
Much Queen Anne, Georgian and Neoclassical furniture from the 18th century was revived during the Victorian era so there remains a good choice of well made, large and more compact antique bookcases in a variety of guises to choose from. These are very imposing pieces of furniture and make excellent investments for the budding antique collector, or for the general investor.
About the Author
The author, Christian Davies, is a second generation antiques dealer and owner of Christian Davies Antiques, a family based antiques business based in Preston, Lancashire. Christian has over 23 years experience in the antiques business and has a passion for genuine, high quality antiques furniture, such as antique bookcases, which he sources from the UK and Europe.
Two Antique Folding Knuckle Knives
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Amco Collapsible Steamer, Stainless Steel $7.95 Amco Houseworks 10957 Collapsible Steamer Stainless Steel… |
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Winsome Wood 3-Panel Wood Folding Screen $130.00 Finish/Color :Antique Walnut Art & Craft Screen Made from solid beechwood and boasts gorgeous antique walnut finish. Creates an effect of additional space in a small room or for creating privacy…. |
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Winsome Lynnwood Drop Leaf High Table $109.98 Accent your home with the Drop Leaf High Table! This elegant piece features a classic style with an antique walnut finish over solid wood, a great choice for a buffet table in the dining room and beyond. The drop leaf raises and lowers easily, providing extra serving space when entertaining, or a nice breakfast table for everyday dining in the kitchen. Full open size (leaf up) : … |
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Cosco 11120RED1 Retro Chair/Step Stool, Red $59.99 Some old school ideas just make sense, like this cool retro step stool/chair combo. The step stool slides in and out easily, allowing user to get that extra reach for an overhead light fixture or the item from the high shelf, while the counter-height stool features a padded vinyl seat and back for comfort and convenience. Sturdy steel tube construction with overmolded step treads for secure footin… |
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Cosco 11-130WHT Chair/Step Stool, White $35.00 24” high seat is ideal for most counters; lifts up for easy access to steps. Wipe clean vinyl upholstered cushioned seat and sturdy steel back. Durable Opti Bond powder coat finish. Easy to assemble. Ribbed, slip resistant step treads. 225 lb. weight capacity. 10 year limited warranty. Dimensions open: 33.5” H. x 17.5” W. x 15.75” D. White…. |
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Expanding PEG Rack 10 Hooks Hardwood Multi-purpose Vertical or Horizontal Wall Mount $1.87 This multi-purpose expanding rack just the thing you need for that room that needs a little extra space or organization. Its 10 pegs can hold coats, hats, mugs, pet leashes and more ! You can hang it vertically or horizontally-whatever meets your hanging needs best. It’s attractive natural wood construction with a clear lacquer finish matches many color schemes and decor…. |
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Oxo Good Grips Upright Broom and Dustpan Set, Silver $22.99 37081 Features: -Step and lock sweep set.-Material: Stainless steel.-Dust pan handle locks in place for easy emptying.-Easily unlocks with one step.-Broom snaps into dust pan for storage.-Pan stores upright to keep dust in pan.-Rubber lip on dust pan provides optimal contact with floor.-Dust pan capacity is 4-cups. Dimensions: -Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz..-Dimensions: 36′ x 8.75′ x 3′…. |
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Jerdon Classic JGL9W Lighted Tri-fold Mirror, 5x Magnification $34.99 The Jerdon Deluxe Lighted Makeup Mirror features two adjustable side mirrors…. |
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Kent The Handmade Comb – 73 mm Fine Toothed Moustache and Beard Comb Hair Brushes Buy Kent Hair Brushes & Combs – Kent The Handmade Comb – 73 mm Fine Toothed Moustache and Beard Comb Model No. 81T… |
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Elgin Travel Alarm Clock $5.55 .7″ LCD with backlight on demandEasy to set controlsCutout window on protective cover for time displayRequires 1 AAA battery (not included)… |