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ID #SA962750
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An Ebonised Open Bookcase (Circa 1930)
Culvertons
reserved SA962750
RESERVED
Culvertons

Culvertons

Sellingantiques Verified Since Dec 2013
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Id #SA962750
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An Ebonised Open Bookcase (Circa 1930)

1920 - 1940
For Sale by Culvertons (Reserved for a buyer)
Description

This 1930s open mahogany bookcase probably sat in a lawyer's, solicitor's or governmental department's office. Its large size creates an immediate visual statement, especially when its six adjustable shelves are full of books. However, even though the mahogany was of good quality, its grain was very straight and lacked a certain depth of tone, not surprising, as the timber was chosen for its strength rather than its visual appeal. However, mahogany of this type does lend itself to be ebonised. This gave us an idea, especially, as this deep black finish, often associated with the aesthetic movement of the 1870s, has once again, become much in demand in recent years. So, we decided to change the bookcase's appearance. As you can see from the images, its interior has also been given a slightly distressed powder grey surface to compliment the ebonised exterior and as a finishing touch, the original mahogany that faces the shelves has also been ebonised. We are very pleased with how this bookcase has turned out - it now is a fashionable and practical piece of 1930s furniture that will complement both a contemporary and period interior.

Physical Dimensions
Height
118cm (46.46")
Width
188cm (74.02")
Depth
28cm (11.02")
Declaration

Culvertons has dated this Ebonised Open Bookcase to the 1930s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA962750
Dealers Notes

Whenever possible Culvertons undertake the carriage of items within London and the home counties. Professional, competitive and trusted couriers and shipping companies are engaged for deliveries for the remainder of our customers. Smaller items, when instructed, will be carefully parcelled and securely sent by the carrier.

We strive to accurately describe and illustrate our stock on the 'Selling Antiques' website. However, we understand that it is not always possible to judge from photographs how an item will look in the home or garden. For this reason, if notified within seven days from the date of delivery we offer a full refund (less any agreed carriage costs) once the item has been returned in the same condition as it left our premises.

Description
This 1930s open mahogany bookcase probably sat in a lawyer's, solicitor's or governmental department's office.
“
Its large size creates an immediate visual statement, especially when its six adjustable shelves are full of books.
Culvertons

However, even though the mahogany was of good quality, its grain was very straight and lacked a certain depth of tone, not surprising, as the timber was chosen for its strength rather than its visual appeal. However, mahogany of this type does lend itself to be ebonised. This gave us an idea, especially, as this deep black finish, often associated with the aesthetic movement of the 1870s, has once again, become much in demand in recent years. So, we decided to change the bookcase's appearance. As you can see from the images, its interior has also been given a slightly distressed powder grey surface to compliment the ebonised exterior and as a finishing touch, the original mahogany that faces the shelves has also been ebonised. We are very pleased with how this bookcase has turned out - it now is a fashionable and practical piece of 1930s furniture that will complement both a contemporary and period interior.

Height
118cm (46.46")
Width
188cm (74.02")
Depth
28cm (11.02")
Date of Manufacture

Culvertons has dated this Ebonised Open Bookcase to the 1930s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA962750
Culvertons
Culvertons
Sellingantiques verified Since Dec 2013
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Culvertons Profile Page

Relevant Links
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A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves.
1 / 11
Archive I A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves.

An ebonised open bookcase (Circa 1930)

Archive II A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View II
Archive III A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View III
Archive IV A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View IV
Archive V A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View V
Archive VI A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View VI
Archive VII A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View VII
Archive VIII A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View VIII
Archive IX A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View IX
Archive X A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View X
Archive XI A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves. View XI
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Enlarged Archival View
Culvertons

Culvertons
Telephone 0777 542 6867 or 01306 770212
Location
42 A West Street
Dorking
Surrey
RH4 1BU
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/culvertons
Verified Since Dec 2013
Items For Sale 49
Items Sold 314
Culvertons
Culvertons
Verified Since Dec 2013
View Dealer Info
Location: 42 A West Street, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1BU, United Kingdom
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/culvertons
Verified
Dec 2013
For Sale
49
Sold
314
A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves.
An ebonised open bookcase (Circa 1930)
Ref: SA962750
A low, wide 1930s ebonised open bookcase with two distinct bays and multiple horizontal shelves.
Detail View 1
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FAQs

Popularised during the late Victorian era and refined through the Art Deco period of the 1930s, ebonised open bookcases were designed to showcase literature and decorative items using a dark finish that mimicked precious ebony wood.

Bookcases from the 1930s were typically constructed using solid hardwoods or softwoods such as oak, beech, or pine, which were subsequently stained, lacquered, or ebonised to achieve a smooth finish.

Authentic pieces from this period often display period-appropriate joinery, consistent age-related wear to the dark finish along exposed edges, and plinth or bracket bases typical of early 20th-century cabinet making.

Place the bookcase against a neutral or deep-toned wall, combining structured rows of books with ceramic vessels or metal objects to contrast with the dark timber frame.

Clean the surface using a soft, dry lint-free cloth, avoiding harsh abrasive cleaners, and apply a clear beeswax sparingly to maintain the sheen and protect the finish.
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