What is the history and purpose of a low open bookcase?

Popularised during the 19th and early 20th centuries, low open bookcases were designed to keep literature accessible while leaving wall space free above for artwork or mirrors.

What materials were traditionally used in crafting mahogany bookcases?

These pieces were typically constructed from solid mahogany or high-grade mahogany veneers over solid timber frameworks, often finished with carved mouldings and hand-cut joinery.

How can you identify an authentic 20th-century mahogany bookcase?

Look for authentic age-related patination, hand-carved decorative elements such as gadrooned edges or shaped feet, and evidence of traditional construction methods like tongue-and-groove backboard panels.

How can a low mahogany bookcase be styled in a modern interior?

A low bookcase works well under a gallery wall or window sill, acting as a display surface for lamps, ceramics, and framed prints alongside organised literature.

How should antique mahogany furniture be cared for?

Maintain the finish by dusting regularly with a dry cloth and applying a quality beeswax polish annually to protect the wood grain and maintain its natural lustre.

for sale €579 $629

£495

ActFurniture LTD

Sellingantiques Verified Since Apr 2023

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Id #SA1230429

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Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

Name: Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1230429
Price: 495 GBP
Availability: InStock

1900 - 1920

For Sale by ActFurniture LTD

Description

Antique 20th century narrow bookcase in mahogany, a handsome and practical piece with elegant proportions and a timeless traditional design. Well made and of good quality, its slim form makes it particularly useful for smaller spaces while still providing ample room for books and decorative items.

The bookcase features two fixed open shelves, offering useful display and storage space.

A beautifully carved edge to the top adds subtle decorative detail and gives the piece a refined appearance without overwhelming its simple design.

The mahogany displays gorgeous natural grain and a rich, warm colour throughout, adding plenty of character and visual appeal.

Its desirable narrow proportions make it a versatile piece for a hallway, study, living room or bedroom.

Presented in good condition, this charming and highly desirable bookcase has plenty of period character and would make a perfect addition to any home.

Product Reference : AF - 6293

Measurements : 76.5cm Width x 21cm Depth x 91.5cm Height

Shelf Height [ Top ] - 22.5cm

Shelf Height - 22.5cm

Shelf Height [ Bottom ] - 26cm

All our products are available for viewing at our stockroom based in Malvern strictly by appointment only.

Please feel free to get in contact with us regarding any queries you might have relating to a specific piece or if you’d like to arrange a visit and I aim to respond as quickly as possible.

Prior to making a purchase, it is important that you please contact us to confirm the piece is still available. We endeavour to keep our stock details up to date, but due to our fast stock turnover there maybe occasions where an item has been sold but it has not yet been updated online.

Delivery ( £65 ) :

All our pieces are professionally wrapped in black plastic and sent though a trusted private courier which we can organise upon your request.

The delivery service consists of a two man team with a delivery timeframe of 3 - 15 working days from the date payment has been received. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements and we will do our upmost to accommodate these, although no guarantees can be given.

The courier will be in contact with you directly with details of exact delivery date and approximate time of arrival.

We currently cover all of the UK Mainlands including most of Scotland.

Scotland -

Delivery cost and timeframe to Scotland and Scottish Highlands will vary regarding on the location and number of orders we have in the area so please get in contact for a direct quote.

Collection ( FREE ) :

Pieces can be collected from WR6 5JE free of charge strictly by appointment only. Please contact us to arrange this.

Many thanks and if you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us and one of our team will respond as quickly as possible.

Physical Dimensions

Height

91.5cm (36.02")

Width

76.5cm (30.12")

Depth

21cm (8.27")

Declaration

ActFurniture LTD has dated this Narrow Mahogany Open Bookcase to the Edwardian era.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1230429

Dealers Internal Reference

AF-6293

Description

Antique 20th century narrow bookcase in mahogany, a handsome and practical piece with elegant proportions and a timeless traditional design.

“

Well made and of good quality, its slim form makes it particularly useful for smaller spaces while still providing ample room for books and decorative items.

ActFurniture LTD

fig 1. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 1. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

The bookcase features two fixed open shelves, offering useful display and storage space.

A beautifully carved edge to the top adds subtle decorative detail and gives the piece a refined appearance without overwhelming its simple design.

fig 2. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 2. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

The mahogany displays gorgeous natural grain and a rich, warm colour throughout, adding plenty of character and visual appeal.

Its desirable narrow proportions make it a versatile piece for a hallway, study, living room or bedroom.

fig 3. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 3. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

Presented in good condition, this charming and highly desirable bookcase has plenty of period character and would make a perfect addition to any home.

Product Reference : AF - 6293

Measurements : 76.5cm Width x 21cm Depth x 91.5cm Height

fig 4. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 4. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

Shelf Height [ Top ] - 22.5cm

Shelf Height - 22.5cm

Shelf Height [ Bottom ] - 26cm

All our products are available for viewing at our stockroom based in Malvern strictly by appointment only.

Please feel free to get in contact with us regarding any queries you might have relating to a specific piece or if you’d like to arrange a visit and I aim to respond as quickly as possible.

fig 5. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 5. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

Prior to making a purchase, it is important that you please contact us to confirm the piece is still available. We endeavour to keep our stock details up to date, but due to our fast stock turnover there maybe occasions where an item has been sold but it has not yet been updated online.

fig 6. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 6. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

Delivery ( £65 ) :

All our pieces are professionally wrapped in black plastic and sent though a trusted private courier which we can organise upon your request.

The delivery service consists of a two man team with a delivery timeframe of 3 - 15 working days from the date payment has been received. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements and we will do our upmost to accommodate these, although no guarantees can be given.

fig 7. An antique narrow mahogany open bookcase featuring three tiers, a gadrooned top edge, and carved bracket feet. — fig 7. Antique 20th Century Narrow Bookcase in Mahogany

The courier will be in contact with you directly with details of exact delivery date and approximate time of arrival.

We currently cover all of the UK Mainlands including most of Scotland.

Scotland -

Delivery cost and timeframe to Scotland and Scottish Highlands will vary regarding on the location and number of orders we have in the area so please get in contact for a direct quote.