catalog text
NEOCLASSICAL STYLE CERUSED MAHOGANY BOOKCASE CABINET
With hardware by M.R. Canoa Industria Argentina; circa the first half of 20th century
Item # 202SPB15A
A powerful presentation piece crafted in the first-half of the 20th century, probably circa 1940-50, it features an angular and austere Neoclassical structure that is modernized with a mechanically brushed and cerused surface throughout. This is particularly effective in light of using dense mahogany woods as a base versus the more common oak; this allows for more streamlined grain lines throughout and melds well with the symmetry of the case. The bookcase is constructed in two parts using mahogany veneers over MDF and secondary woods. The lower half features a slide-out surface over a pair of cabinet doors that open to reveal a single shelf; these doors retain the original locks cast by M.R. Canoa Industria of Argentina. This firm was primarily known for the clasps and fasteners they made for bags, satchels and belts, but they apparently had a division focused on lock-making as there are a large number of French cabinets, desks and case pieces retaining locks made by them during this period. In the upper section, the three shelves are easily adjusted for height using wooden bars that inset on either side.
Measurements: 85 1/4" H x 17 1/2" D x 49 1/8" W
Condition Report:
Some light surface wear throughout, overall a fine presentation. Left and right sides of upper bookcase with some chipping to veneers along the bottom edge; some surface staining/scarring.