Vintage Oak Stacking Barrister’s Bookcase
This is a vintage sectional stacking bookcase in the style of the Globe-Wernicke barrister’s bookcases. It is built up from individual stacking sections, each with its own front, and it is presented as a freestanding unit. The piece is offered as a lot in the sale.
The bookcase has a carved crest to the top, above a moulded cornice. Three of the upper sections have leaded glazed doors with a repeating geometric pattern, and one lower section has a solid oak fall-front decorated with a central carved lyre motif. The base section has two panelled doors. The timber appears to be oak, with a warm brown finish and visible grain, and the brass knob pulls are evident on the glazed fronts. Stacking bookcases of this type were designed so that each section could be locked and removed independently.
Condition and Collector Interest
The hint given with this lot states that one piece of glass is damaged, and this should be taken into account when bidding. The remaining glazing and the carved detailing appear to be intact, and the general wear to the timber is consistent with age. No other repairs or alterations are stated, and the unit has not been tested as to its operation or the fit of its sections.
Bookcases of this kind are sought after by collectors of vintage office and library furniture, and by those who appreciate the leaded glazing and carved oak detailing. The stacking format also makes them popular with buyers looking for storage in a traditional style.
