Antique Bookcases
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French Midcentury Oak Bookcase
$8,995.00107.25"H x 73.25"W x 18.50"D
Dimensions: 107 ¼” H x 73 ¼” W x 18 ½” D
This magnificent vintage bookcase is a demonstration of French craftsmanship intersecting with 20th century design tastes in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, bridging 19th century Arts & Crafts traditions with the graphic, modern styling popular since Art Deco. Made from solid oak, the wood has a warm color and patina that highlights the natural grain and depth of the wood. The upper section is a series of open shelves, allowing for the display of books, trophies, heirlooms and other collections. Three upper shelves (10 ¼” deep) are solid planks, adjustable on sawtooth brackets to reconfigure as needed while the lowest shelf is fixed. Pilasters framing the openings of the shelves have fluted carvings terminating in a geometric motif like a colon. The lower body projects slightly beyond the upper section, and is organized into two shallow drawers nearly hidden above two pairs of paneled doors enclosing the undivided cabinet. Interior shelf measures 13 ⅝” deep. Look closely to appreciate the unique shape of the paneling on the six doors. All these features result in a bookcase that is distinguished but not imposing, characterized by thoughtful lines, a creative spirit, and substantial scale. Ideal for a library, office, or living room, this bookcase combines functionality with the sophistication of French antique furniture, making it a versatile and beautiful addition to any space. Note that there is evidence the piece was previously attached to a wall, see the detailed images for more. Two keys included.
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French Midcentury Oak Bibliotheque
$9,995.00107.75"H x 93"W x 18.50"D
Dimensions: 107 ¾” H x 93” W x 18 ½” D
This magnificent vintage bookcase is a demonstration of French craftsmanship intersecting with 20th century design tastes in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, bridging 19th century Arts & Crafts traditions with the graphic, modern styling of Art Deco. Made from solid oak, the wood has a warm color and patina that highlights the natural grain and depth of the wood. The upper section is a series of adjustable open shelves, allowing for the display of books, trophies, heirlooms and other collections. Six planks make up the three upper shelves–adjustable on sawtooth brackets to reconfigure as needed–while the lowest shelf is fixed. Pilasters framing the openings of the shelves have fluted carvings terminating in a geometric motif like a colon. The lower body projects slightly beyond the upper section, and is organized into three shallow drawers nearly hidden above three pairs of paneled doors enclosing the undivided cabinet. Interior shelf measures 13 ⅝” deep. Look closely to appreciate the unique shape of the paneling on the six doors. All these features result in a bookcase that is distinguished but not imposing, characterized by thoughtful lines, a creative spirit, and substantial scale. Ideal for a library, office, or living room, this bookcase combines functionality with the sophistication of French antique furniture, making it a versatile and beautiful addition to any space. Two keys included.
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French 19th Century Mahogany Louis XVI Style Bibliotheque
$10,500.0098.50"H x 123.75"W x 19.50"D
Dimensions: 98 ½” H x 123 ¾” W x 19 ½” D
A sprawling, 19th century French bibliothèque, handcrafted of mahogany with four glass-front doors to display treasured books, trophies, and other collections in an office or library. Note there are two units here–mirror images of each other–designed as one complete installation. Louis XVI in style (with some Louis Philippe similarities) the clean, linear quality allows this timeless design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Behind the pairs of locking doors framed by fluted pilasters are three interior shelves each (13 ½” deep) which are adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed. Note that the panes do not exhibit the bubbles and waves to confirm they are original, so are likely 20th century replacements. Below the panes the mahogany panels showcase the beautiful grain patterns this exotic wood is prized for, underscoring the sense of luxury. This striking storage piece has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to bring out the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images. One key included.
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French 19th Century Louis Philippe Mahogany Bibliotheque
$13,500.0096.63"H x 104.63"W x 18.75"D
Dimensions: 96 ⅝” H x 104 ⅝” W x 18 ¾” D
A capacious, 19th century French Louis Philippe style bibliothèque, handcrafted of mahogany with a row of four glass-front doors for displaying treasured books, heirlooms, and other collections in an office or library. The clean, linear quality and rather narrow depth allow this timeless design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Behind the two pairs of locking doors are eight (8) interior shelves (7 ½” deep) which are adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed. Note that the panes do not exhibit the bubbles and waves to confirm they are original, so are likely 20th century replacements. Below are a series of four, bookmatched doors enclosing the lower cabinet that follows the order of the upper body: each pair of doors work in tandem by a lock & key to enclose the (left and right) cabinets. Both compartments have a stationary shelf, approximately 15” deep. This striking storage piece has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to bring out the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images. Four keys included.
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French 19th Century Grand Ebonized Bibliotheque
$14,500.00113"H x 62"W x 27"D
Dimensions: 113” H x 62” W x 27”D
This French bibliotheque from the 19th century makes a dramatic statement for any interior with its height alone, and the ebonized finish on the exterior gives it the presence to anchor any kitchen, dining room, library, or office. Below an understated cornice, the soaring glass-front doors over the bookcase retain their original panes, providing visibility to regard the contents on four shelves, 15” deep. To contrast to the ebonized shelves, the panels on the back and sides are left their natural oak color allowing the warm glow of the wood to further illuminate the interior. The lower body–protruding slightly beyond the shelves like a “buffet a deux corps”–offers a pair of locking drawers and a paneled cabinet for (less visible) storage and organization, including a shelf, 21 ⅞” deep adjustable on sawtooth brackets. Cleaned, tightened and polished, this monumental storage piece is ready to astound in your interior. Please view the detailed images to see more. Two keys included.
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French 19th Century Bookmatched Mahogany Louis Philippe Armoire
$5,600.0091.13"H x 58"W x 23"D
Dimensions: 91 ⅛” H x 58 ” W x 23” D
A spacious, 19th century French Louis Philippe style armoire or bibliothèque, handcrafted of mahogany with four-way bookmatched doors that are fascinating from every perspective, both geometric and organic. The clean, straight lines allow this timeless design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Behind the locking doors with captivating grain patterns are three stationary shelves, 15 ½” deep for storing treasured books, clothing or linens. Graceful bracket feet lift the case from the floor. The dark wood has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to bring out the natural color historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images.
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French 19th Century Mahogany Louis Philippe Bibliotheque
Original price was: $4,995.00.$3,200.00Current price is: $3,200.00.81.75"H x 54"W x 15.25"D
Dimensions: 81 ¾” H x 54” W x 15 ¼” D
A narrow, 19th century French Louis Philippe style bibliothèque or bookcase, handcrafted of mahogany with two glass-front doors for displaying treasured books, heirlooms, or trophies in an office or library. The clean, straight lines allow this timeless design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Behind the locking doors are four shelves (with subtle pinstripe inlay on the edges) adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed. Note that the glass is likely more recent without the expected waves and bubbles of handmade original panes. The dark wood has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to bring out the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition.
Shelf depth: 9 ½”-10 ⅝”
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French Early 19th Century Fruitwood Empire Bibliotheque
$6,500.0087.25"H x 54.50"W x 24"D
Dimensions: 87 ¼” H x 54 ½” W x 24” D
A 19th century French Empire style bibliothèque or display cabinet, handcrafted using solid fruitwood and two glass-front doors accented with brass. The clean, straight lines allow this handsome design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes–the perfect complement to showcase treasured books, heirlooms, or trophies in an office or library. Behind the locking doors–which have retained their original glass panes–are three interior shelves (ranging in depth from 16 ¼-17 ⅜”) adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed, raising or lowering within a few inches. Other unique features of the design are the ornate escutcheons with scrolling, anthemion motif and the coordinating brass applications over the capital and base of the half-round columns flanking the doors. This outstanding case piece has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to maintain the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French 19th Century Mahogany Bibliotheque
$7,800.0085.88"H x 57"W x 20.63"D
Dimensions: 85 ⅞” H x 57” W x 20 ⅝” D
A 19th century French Louis Philippe style bibliothèque or other display cabinet, handcrafted from gorgeously figured mahogany and two glass-front doors outlined with delicate inlay of contrasting tone. The clean, straight lines allow this handsome design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Behind the locking doors–which have retained their original, wavy glass panes–are four interior shelves (16 ¼” deep) adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed. Another unique feature of the design is the (more recent) addition of twill fabric wrapping the back of the interior and shelves in a lovely shade of Spanish moss green that will be the perfect complement to display treasured books, heirlooms, or trophies in an office or library. Raised off the floor on short bun feet. This outstanding case piece has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to maintain the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French 19th Century Louis Philippe Massive Bibliotheque
$14,500.00112.50"H x 83.50"W x 23.63"D
Dimensions: 112 ½” H x 83 ½” W x 23 ⅝” D
A towering, 19th century French Louis Philippe style bibliothèque or bookcase, handcrafted of mahogany with three glass-front doors for displaying treasured books, heirlooms, or trophies in an office or library. The clean, straight lines with angled corners allow this timeless design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Original glass panes are texturized by waves and small bubbles that complement the animated striations in the mahogany wood grain. Behind the locking doors are six interior shelves (11 ½” deep) that are adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed. The left and center doors function together, representing one, wide vitrine whereas the right side is separate. Below are a series of three doors enclosing the lower cabinet that follow the order of the upper body: left and center doors work in tandem by a lock & key while the right side is separate. Both compartments have an adjustable shelf, approximately 17” deep. Note the lower right door does not have a lock, needing the shared key to pull open. This striking storage piece has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to bring out the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. There is one small crack in the glass of the left-side upper cabinet, bottom left corner, which is mostly concealed by the frame holding the pane securely in place. Please view the detailed images. Three keys included.
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Antique French Door Bibliothèque
$6,895.0094.63"H x 48"W x 20"D
Dimensions: 94 ⅝” H x 48” W x 20” D
This is a new, custom armoire (or bibliotheque) made by repurposing an antique, circa 1800 door from France. Originally an exterior door, now split into two halves, the surface of the wood is layered with paint blending gold, green, and salmon pink underneath textured patina from exposure to the elements. This same color palette was carefully recreated in a faux finish over new cabinetry built to match the quality of these substantial doors. On the front of the doors are grills of wrought iron accented with flowers that veils the windows, backed in clear glass to function both as a protective feature as well as to reveal the contents of the cabinet. Twisted wrought iron handles complement the window screen, a gentle tug on the right door opens the one side, whereas the left door is hooked to the shelf. Inside the case are four shelves, adjustable on sawtooth brackets to reconfigure as needed and to different rooms. Please view the detailed images to see all the wonderful features of this truly unique storage piece.
Shelf depth: 15 ¼”
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English 19th Century Sheraton Secretary
$4,200.0088.50"H x 37"W x 18.25"D
Dimensions: 88 ½” H x 37” W x 18 ¼” D
A slender mahogany bureau bookcase with secretary desk, made in England, circa 1820. The secretary’s upper body is crowned with a broken pediment–a classic Sheraton feature–above glass front doors that appear to be all original panes, assembled in a gorgeous fretwork pattern, secured by a working lock and key. Inside are three shelves at 7” deep that are easily adjustable on sawtooth brackets. A conch shell design rendered in marquetry decorates the flap door for the desk, locked & unlocked with the same key as the vitrine. Two hidden rails extending from the bureau support the desktop when in use. The interior of the workspace offers multiple storage compartments: slots for sorting correspondence and mail, with two small pen drawers at center. The lower body offers three drawers that easily glide open & shut, using simple brass drop pulls to operate; the same key as before locks the top and middle drawer however the bottom drawer will not turn. Cleaned, tightened, polished with a French paste wax – ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images.
Desk height: 29 ⅜”
Depth when extended: 36 ⅛” -
Vintage Hollywood Regency Brass & Glass Etagere
Original price was: $3,200.00.$2,500.00Current price is: $2,500.00.79"H x 31.75"W x 12.38"D
Dimensions: 79” H x 31 ¾” W x 12 ⅜” D
A Hollywood Regency, 1970’s modern brass-toned etagere shelf unit, with four glass shelves of octagonal shape. Each shelf is adjustable to two settings by relocating the support rods. Three of the shelves are clear glass and one is smoked. Design is in the style of Milo Baughman, no visible markings on this example. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition.
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French Vintage Pair of Open Shelves
Original price was: $4,200.00.$3,200.00Current price is: $3,200.00.83.25"H x 46.88"W x 19.63"D
Dimensions: 83 ¼” H x 46 ⅞” W x 19 ⅝” D
A fun and unique pair of vintage French shelving units each offering fifteen cubes, or compartments, washed in a vibrant turquoise paint on the back and trimmed in the same color on the front. They are constructed from rustic pine planks in a variety of natural texture and developed patina that make them ideally suited to utilitarian functions such as in a mudroom or pantry, as well as for holding books. Please view the detailed images. Sold as a pair.
Left shelf: 83 ¼” H x 46 ⅞” W x 19 ¼” D
Right shelf: 83 ¼” H x 46 ¼” W x 19 ⅝” D
Cube interior dimensions: approximately 14” H x 13” W x 18 ¼” D -
English 19th Century Waterfall Bookcase
Original price was: $2,100.00.$1,650.00Current price is: $1,650.00.56.63"H x 46.75"W x 11"D
Dimensions: 56 ⅝” H x 46 ¾” W x 11” D
Artsy and offbeat, this antique bookcase from circa 1870 England will bring character to any interior. The front edges of the two stiles are carved to an undulating waterfall effect for a unique detail. The original Kelly green color has become variably patinated and worn on the shelves and sides. Mortise-and-tenon joinery of the top and bottom shelves give stability to the frame, for displaying books, houseplants, and other collections. Please view the detailed images.
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French Reproduction Walnut Bibliotheque
$10,995.00103.50"H x 111.25"W x 20.50"D
Dimensions: 103 ½” H x 111 ¼” W x 20 ½” D
This classically designed breakfront bibliotheque was custom made with beautiful walnut veneer. The center of the bookcase has two glass paneled doors with five adjustable shelves measuring 12.5” deep, below are two pull out slides measuring 33 ½” deep. The bottom has simple paneled doors that open to a custom storage cavity. This bookcase must have been used in an office and there are two shelves with slides, most likely used to pull out a printer or other electronic devices. The center column of this bookcase is flanked by a pair of open shelves that have a narrow depth, perfect for displaying books and accessories. Each side has five adjustable shelves at 9” deep. Below are doors inset with brass wire, behind is one adjustable shelf on each side at 6.5” deep. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax this bookcase is ready for your immediate use. Be sure to view the detailed images.
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French 19th Century Pine Bistro Hanging Shelves
Original price was: $2,250.00.$1,800.00Current price is: $1,800.00.49"H x 47.25"W x 7.38"D
Dimensions: 49” H x 47 ¼” W x 7 ⅜” D
French 19th Century pine bistro shelves hand-crafted in France circa 1890. Made of solid oak, four shelves allow for plenty of storage or display. Standing at over 4 feet tall it’s a perfect piece to use in any room. The finely turned wooden supports topped with decorative finials and ending in a shaped bracket support add a touch of elegance to the country pine. The height of the shelves gradually becomes larger descending toward the bottom of the piece. Attractive and functional, these antique shelves would be a wonderful addition to any space. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a better look.
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French 19th Century Mahogany Louis XVI Style Vitrine
$3,450.0056"H x 26.38"W x 12.50"D
Dimensions: 56”H x 26-⅜”W x 12-½”D
We love this Louis XVI style mahogany vitrine from France, crafted during the 1870s, topped with an antique piece of red marble that is surrounded by a pierced brass gallery. Three sides feature the original glass panes to showcase your collections within the interior. Worn red velvet wrapping the shelves and back perfectly complements the richness in the wood tone and the stone top. Three removable shelves measure 9-⅞” deep. One key is included for the functioning lock and serves as the pull. The whole is raised on wonderfully turned feet with brass caps. Make sure to view all of the images to get a closer look at its current condition and exceptional craftsmanship.
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French 20th Century Mahogany Vitrine
$4,800.0065.13"H x 31.75"W x 17.25"D
Dimensions: 65-⅛”H x 31-¾”W x 17-¼”D
Display your treasured objects in this beautiful early 20th century French Empire style mahogany vitrine. Beveled glass panels can be found in the case antique’s door and sides, allowing one to view the contents placed inside on its two glass shelves. A mirrored back gives the illusion of a completely transparent cabinet. The vitrine has recently undergone a refinishing, giving the antique a ‘like new’ appearance. The wonderful brass hardware found at the capital and base of the pilaster columns which flank the door has been polished to a brilliant luster – along with the sabots that cap the front feet. Inside, two additional finished mahogany lower shelves can be used to house objects out of sight. The door can be locked using the original brass palm motif key included.
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French 19th Century Counter-Top Display Cabinet
$2,795.0032.125"H x 20.875"W x 20.875"D
Dimensions: 32-1/8″H x 20-7/8″W x 20-7/8″D
French 19th century painted Louis XVI style counter top glass display cabinet. Two glass adjustable shelves and mirrored floor. Egg and dart molding around crown with pearl beading that frames each glass panel. Eight panels of glass total with interesting and intriguing corner arched glass panels. Some restoration has been done on the top, base and door. The top actually lifted off the cabinet – it was a stacking process for display. Now the top is secure and a door was made for your convenience. Wonderful for displaying a special collection. Made around 1850.
Antique Bookcases From Fireside Antiques
Often, a library is one of the first places we pair with antiques since we associate books with old, historical knowledge. As such, antique bookcases can be some of the most awe-inspiring furniture pieces we offer. Additionally, because of their versatility as a display shelf, bookcases can fit into nearly any household renovation or design.
You might be surprised by the wide variety of unique shapes and styles that our antique bookcases offer, too. From open bookcases with floating shelves to barrister bookcases with glass doors, we’ve seen it all. Even antique buffet cabinets and armoires can function well as bookcases with the right modifications, something the restorers at Fireside Antiques know well.
Another reason antique bookcases tend to be so eye-catching is their status as the elite’s furniture. Throughout history, books were often considered a luxury afforded only to the rich, so as such, bookcases tended to belong to the rich, too. This resulted in the abundance of ornate bookcases you see today.
Despite their elegance, though, antique bookcases have the unique property of not overpowering a space. Because bookcases were designed to showcase the books within, they had to blend in with the rest of the home. A quality antique bookcase today will reflect that philosophy by matching a room’s décor while not commanding too much attention.
Of course, if your bookcase couldn’t hold your books or fine china safely, that meant it failed as a furniture piece, too. A bookcase was intended to protect precious books, papers, and other important items within its confines. To that end, antique bookcases were sometimes lined with silk or the insides painted with bright colors to highlight their contents.
Decorating With Antique Bookcases
One of the best parts of decorating with an antique bookcase is its versatility. Regardless of whether your decorative “case” is actually a buffet, a vitrine, or even a tea trolley, they can go in virtually any room and bring class to almost any space.
Since these are essentially antique displays, you don’t need to display books in them at all. If you don’t have a large book collection, why not use one of our antique bookcases to display figurines, collectibles, artwork, or even photographs?
Don’t assume that a high-quality antique bookcase from Fireside Antiques is the same as any old bookcase, though. These bookcases were made with the craftsmanship common in furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Despite being old, worn, and decorated with beautiful patina, these bookcases will stand the test of time and hold your collection with ease.