Antique Victorian Oak Library Bookcase

A super quality Victorian oak library bookcase attributed to Gillows of Lancaster. In superior quarter-sawn oak it features bold columns, fish scale carvings and panelled doors and dates to c.1860.

The upper section has a moulded cornice with decorative roundels to the frieze, foliate carved and fluted full columns with fish scale carvings to the base, and three glazed doors also with fish scale carving to the mouldings between. There are four adjustable shelves to each section allowing over 32ft (9.7m) of books to be displayed whilst the projecting base beneath has three panelled doors with unusual circular mouldings, fish scale mouldings to door edgess and ornate flanking Corinthian columns with fluting and gadrooned turnings.

In a rich deep shade of brown with striking ‘sun ray’ effect to the grain from the quarter-sawn cut, it is in very good condition and stamped ‘26778’. It has had a repair to the cornice to the front left side where it appears a section was taken out and then added in again (possibly to accommodate a ceiling beam), there are minor surface marks as should be expected and on the inside of the upper section there is a chip to the lower edge of one of the upright dividers. Unfortunately we do not have keys but all the doors close snuggly (one lock is a replacement). There are brass catches to the centre doors.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or for more photos as we are limited in the number we can upload.

Width - 87 1/2in (222cm)

Depth - 23 1/2in (60cm)

Height - 101 1/2in (258cm)

Top shelves - 25 & 26in wide x 11 1/2in deep (63.5 & 66cm x 29.5cm)

Base shelves - 23 1/2 & 27in wide x 17 1/4in deep (65 & 69cm x 44cm)

For transportation and moving this bookcase splits into six parts plus the shelves (cornice, top left section, top right section, top centre back, top centre door, and base section)

Ref: 0346

When buying it is important appreciate antiques have long histories of daily use and as such, over time they gain minor scratches, marks, knocks, shrinkage splits, signs of old woodworm, lifts and losses to veneer, which combine with care and years of polishing to create an individual character and patina. We describe the main flaws and those that fall outside of this bracket but cannot describe each marks separately and therefore suggest you do take the time to request extra photos. We do offer a 14 day money back guarantee if you are unhappy with your purchase but cannot refund the return shipping cost. If you are not sure please do not buy without clarifying or take the view that the only way to have it as near to new as possible is to have it fully and comprehensively restored.

For delivery we use a small carrier experience in carrying antique furniture. Delivery is usually within 31 days and the carrier will make arrangements with you directly. We can provide contact details of other carriers if required.