catalog text
GEORGIAN MAHOGANY BLIND-DOOR LIBRARY BOOKCASE
England, circa mid-19th century
Item # 006SMP30A
A rich and vibrant library bookcase from the second quarter of the 19th-century, it is difficult for pictures to capture just how attractive the mahogany is throughout the case. It retains an early cognac finish under shellac that simply glows, the edges having darkened from accumulated dirt in the layers of wax. The cabinet is built in three parts to make transport a bit more manageable: the crown, the mid-section and the base section. Note that the mid-section is crafted as a single box, not in three parts as some cabinets of the period.
The simplicity and austerity of the surface is most compelling, the only ornamentation being the egg-and-dart carved molding in the crest. Each door is a single solid plank of figured mahogany, the backs chamfered so that they can shift inside the groove of the door frame. This has allowed each to survive in beautiful condition without breaking from shrinkage. The boards chosen for each door are truly superior with vibrant chaotic grain flaming through each.
These open to reveal adjustable shelving, the mid-section with two shelves per division and the lower cabinet with a single shelf per division.
Remaining entirely pure with untouched originality, this exquisite library bookcase is a most fine acquisition.
Measurements: 75" W x 23" D x 93" H; base is 36 1/2" H, mid-section is 52 1/2" H and crown is 5 1/2" H
Condition Report:
Early finish with gorgeous worn patina. Discolorations and color variation throughout, overall the effect is very nice. Minor chips, dings and abrasions as well as old scarring. Minor gap between base molding and cabinet on right side. Most shelf pins have been replaced with dowels. Tiny piece of replaced bottom edge molding in the crown.