Antique Bookcases

Fireside Antiques offers antique bookcases. We source many of our vintage bookcases and Bibliotheque on buying trips to Europe.  Here, you will find a vast selection of English and French 19th Century antiques.

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  • French 19th Century Solid Mahogany Louis Philippe Style Bibliotheque

    $3,995.00

    86.88"H x 44.50"W x 19.50"D

    Dimensions: 86 ⅞”H x 44 ½”W x 19 ½”D

    This handsome bibliotheque was crafted in the style of Louis Philippe in 19th century France. Gorgeous flame patterned mahogany is well paired with deep red toned trim to create a knockout case piece. Original wavy glass in the top cabinet doors adds to its allure and the doors open to three interior storage shelves that measure 9 ⅝” deep. The doors’ lock is functional and includes its own small key. The bottom cabinet features paneled doors with shaped trim that also lock and open with a larger key. A total of two keys are present. The bottom cabinets open to a large storage space with one shelf that measures 16’ deep. The gorgeous array of color in the wood along with an uncluttered design make this bibliotheque a versatile piece that will work beautifully in any living space. Make sure to view all the images to get a closer look at the details and the current condition of this great antique bookcase.

  • French Louis Philippe Walnut Bibliotheque

    $4,995.00

    87"H x 56.50"W x 21.38"D

    Dimensions: 87” H x 56 ½” W x 21 ⅜” D

    This unique Louis Philippe antique is made of beautifully figured walnut and the interior has been recently painted and pairs well with the tones of the walnut and can be seen through the glass double doors. One key is present for the doors working lock. Three adjustable shelves are housed within the interior and measure 16” deep. Fabulous burl veneer wows in the crown and base of this stylish piece.The whole has gained a great amount of patina and will add an abundance of charm to any space. Make sure to view all of the photographs to get a closer look.

  • French 19th Century Breakfront Bibliotheque

    $32,000.00

    128"H x 166"W x 26.25"D

    Dimensions: 128” H x 166” W x 26 1/4″ D

    A massive French painted oak breakfront bibliotheque or bookcase hand-crafted in France in the 19th century. This large case piece features a set of three long double doors with original rolled glass panels fitted inside that open to four 17 ” D fixed shelves, plus three large double door cabinets in the base, each with one 17” D shelf and painted pulls on the doors. The bottom of the below cabinets measure 21” D. At the top is an outstanding stepped cornice with trimmed and paneled moldings over four splendidly carved columns that are fluted and with decorative neoclassical capitals and bases. Further columns of the same style follow down the solid oak double doors to the cabinet fronts and plinth. The sides include their own gorgeous original glass panels which offer additional angles to view books or other items on display. Displaying the original white paint with bits of wood showing through, this piece has an overall gorgeous surface that is well patinated and textured. This bibliotheque is in excellent antique condition. One key is present. This bookcase breaks down in three upper sections, has removable doors and shelves, and the base is one long piece. Be sure to view all the images to get a closer look at the details of this wonderful French bibliotheque that has amazing display and storage capacity.
    Base cabinet: 36” H x 166” W x 26 1/4” D
    Top sections: 92” H x 166” W x 26 1/4” D

  • French 19th Century Ebonized Oak Bibliotheque

    $9,995.00

    89.63"H x 106.75"W x 20.63"D

    Dimensions: 89 ⅝” H x 106 ¾” W x 20 ⅝” D

    A beautiful and sizable French 19th century bibliotheque. The four trimmed glass front, locking and latching upper doors close before three saw-tooth adjustable shelves. The interior is painted a gorgeous dusty terracotta color by Benjamin Moore called “Dodge Pole”, a shade that is offset perfectly by the deep dark ebonized exterior, making this a truly stunning case piece. Four lower doors close before two separate compartments, each with a single adjustable shelf. There is one key included for all four functioning locks that serve as the doors’ pull. This piece sits steadily on a plinth base, flush to the ground. Very refined with its rich color, beveled trim, and smooth lines, this piece exudes style and good craftsmanship. This bibliotheque is the perfect combination of display and hidden storage space. In wonderful condition, make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look.

  • SALELimited

    French 19th Century Pine Bistro Hanging Shelves

    $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 gets 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.

  • English 19th Century Mahogany Whatnot Shelf

    $1,995.00

    61.75"H x 30.13"W x 12.13"D

    Dimensions: 61 ¾” H x 30 ⅛” W x 12 ⅛” D

    This English 19th century mahogany whatnot shelf was handcrafted in England circa 1870 and is the perfect balance between function and style. Standing at over 5 feet tall this handsome shelf will add height and storage to your interior. Wonderfully tuned bobbin supports topped with expertly turned and polished finials bring an ornamental flourish and objet d’art feel to this most functional piece of furniture. This shelving will provide a practical and decorative solution for storing and displaying books, photos, or any other knick knacks that one might want to show off that could otherwise clutter up a room. The beautiful tone, pattern of the wood grain, long smooth shelves, and elongated arrow feet give this piece a certain elegance. Timeless and versatile, these shelves would be a great addition to any interior. Make sure to view all the images to get a closer look at the details of this fabulous and functional antique.

  • French 19th Century Biedermeier Bookcase

    $3,995.00

    46.75"H x 53.38"W x 15.50"D

    Dimensions: 46 ¾” H x 53 ⅜” W x 15 ½” D

    An early 19th century French Biedermeier polished satinwood bookcase with ebony accents. This attractive open bookcase, circa 1830 in date, has a stunning pair of ebonized columns with decorative brass capitelli encircled with neoclassical patterns that can also be found on their pedestals that rest on handsome ebony paw feet. The bookcase has four shelves which can be adjusted to accommodate the height of your books. Stylish and elegant, this bookcase would add interest to any space. Be sure to view all the images to get a closer look at this marvelous antique.

  • Scandinavian Mid Century Oak Whatnot Shelf

    $2,995.00

    68.63"H x 39.25"W x 8.63"D

    Dimensions: 68 ⅝” H x 39 ¼” W x 8 ⅝” D

    This Scandinavian Mid Century what-not shelf made of oak and finished with a high gloss is the perfect balance between function and style. Standing at over 5 feet tall this lovely shelf will add height and storage to your interiors. Wonderfully tuned bobbin supports bring an ornamental flourish and objet d’art feel to this most functional piece of furniture. This shelving will provide a practical and decorative solution for storing and displaying books, photos, or any other knick knacks that one might want to show off that could otherwise get lost or clutter up a room. A gorgeous natural color and long smooth shelves make this piece timeless and versatile. Make sure to view all the images to get a closer look at the details and the beautiful wood grain.

  • French 19th Century Empire Style Petite Bookcase

    $3,995.00

    70.25"H x 36.63"W x 20.50"D

    Dimensions: 70-¼”H x 36-⅝”W x 20-½”D

    A handsome petite Empire style bookcase from France, circa 1850. Crafted from warm and patinated mahogany with a more recently painted interior in Farrow & Ball Oval Room blue paint. A delicate floral piece of ormolu surmounts the glass front doors. The paneled doors feature palm inspired escutcheons and a functioning lock. One decorative key is included. Turned columns flank the doors and showcase engraved brass capitals and bases. The interior houses 4 saw-tooth adjustable shelves that measure 13-¼” deep. Bullet shaped feet raise the whole. Make sure to view all of the images to get a closer look at the details and condition.

  • French 18th Century Inlaid Breakfront Bibliotheque

    $38,500.00

    99"H x 94"W x 20.13"D

    Dimensions: 99”H x 94”W x 20-⅛”D

    A breathtaking hand carved ebony cabinet with over the top marquetry designs! Built in the 1790’s this rare and fine breakfront bookcase is in outstanding antique condition. All the doors display hand rolled glass panes sounded in detailed inlay. All of the doors have functioning clock keys and locks, something we have never seen before! The door fronts have the most remarkable designs depicting overflowing scrolling baskets of flowers. The interior painted black shelves in the top measure 13-¾”deep. The lower shelf measures 13-⅝”deep. Three keys are included for all of the functioning locks. The whole is raised on bun feet. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look at the wonderful craftsmanship and wear. This antique is not one to miss!

  • French 19th Century Mahogany Louis XVI Style Vitrine

    $3,450.00

    56"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 to showcase your collection within the interior. Worn red velvet upholstery perfectly compliments the richness in the wood tone and the stone top. Three removable shelves are housed within the interior and are 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 photographs to get a closer look at its current condition and great craftsmanship.

  • French Massive Mahogany Bibliotheque

    $28,500.00

    122"H x 116.50"W x 26.13"D

    Dimensions: 122”H x 116-½”W x 26-⅛”D

    This fabulously large bibliotheque was crafted in France in the 1800’s and provides a great amount of shortage space. The top measures 82-¼”“H x 116-½“W x 18-¼”D and houses 5 finished adjustable shelves behind the original wavy glass doors. The interior depth is 12-½”. Each pair of doors contains a functioning lock. The bottom measures 39-⅝”H x 111-¼”W x 26-⅛”D and houses three drawers and two doored cavities with an interior depth of 21-⅜” . The drawers are seamless and flush without hardware and a functioning lock each. Within the rightmost drawer, four pre-sectioned spaces allow for nice organization. Each pair of doors contains a functioning lock and houses a single adjustable shelf. The whole sits flush to the ground on a plinth base. One key is included. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look at the fine craftsmanship.

  • French 19th Century Mahogany Vitrine

    $2,400.00

    69.88"H x 33.25"W x 15.75"D

    Dimensions: 69-⅞”H x 33-¼”W x 15-¾”D

    This Louis Philippe vitrine was crafted in France during the 19th century from finley bookmatched mahogany. A brass border encompasses the large single pane of glass and faux panel below it. The interior is lined with a vibrant red linen blend fabric with a gold trim to give it a finished look. Three adjustable glass shelves provide a sophisticated way to display or store your favorite things. Below the main storage space are two drawers; one with Empire style hardware and one without. The larger, more obvious drawer is fixed with a pair of lion face drop ring pulls and a laurel escutcheon. The plain drawer is perfect for hiding valuables and provides a bit more storage space. A single key is included for the functioning lock within the door. Make sure to view all of the photographs to get a closer look at the details.

  • Pair of 19th Century Bleached Oak Bookcases

    $27,500.00

    102.50"H x 52.50"W x 22"D

    Dimensions: 102-½”H x 52-½”W x 22”D

    A pair of bleached oak bookcases stand at 8.5 feet tall and make a huge impact together. The contrast of wood finishes makes it easy to incorporate with your existing decor. Each glass front case houses two adjustable shelves. The lower storage each contains a pair of drawers above locking doors with a single shelf on the interior. All locks are functional and 5 keys are included. Make sure to take a look at the additional photos for a better view of the brilliant details. Sold as a pair only.

  • French 19th Century Pine Bibliotheque

    $9,995.00

    83.13"H x 101"W x 18"D

    Dimensions: 83-⅛”H x 101”W x 18”D

    A sizable pine bibliotheque crafted in France circa 1860. The four arched glass front, locking and latching upper doors close before two saw-tooth adjustable shelves diverge in the center of the piece. Four lower doors close before two separate compartments, each with a single adjustable shelf. There are two keys included for all four functioning locks that serve as the doors’ pull. This piece sits on a plinth base, flush to the ground. This piece is both rustic and refined. The vibrant pine has gained a wonderful patina over the years. New glass has recently been professionally installed for a clear view of your art, books, and decor. This bibliotheque is the perfect combination of display and hidden storage space. In wonderful antique condition, make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look.

  • SALELimited

    French 19th Century Rosewood Cabinet

    $2,100.00

    36.88"H x 44.25"W x 16.50"D

    Dimensions: 36-⅞”H x 44-¼’W x 16-½”D

    This is a finely done French 19th century cabinet, perfect for as a display case or entertainment center. Crafted with rosewood, the top beautifully showcases the dark venous grain and knots. The seemingly plain apron seamlessly houses a hidden drawer atop a pair of shaped glass front doors. The original glass has been replaced. Unlocking the doors reveals two fixed shelves with a darker finish than the exterior. One key is included. The whole sits on a plinth base, flush to the ground. Circa 1840. This piece is in wonderful antique condition, make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look.

  • Dutch 19th Century Apothecary Display Case

    $12,500.00

    108.75"H x 85.25"W x 20.25"D

    Dimensions: 108-¾”H x 85-¼”W x 20-¼”D

    A massive Dutch apothecary display case from a pharmacy. A large cornice with gorgeous acanthus leaf carvings draws the eyes up. Three molded, adjustable shelves compose the top portion while the bottom single shelf is fixed. Fantastic reeding and fluting details perfectly compliment the paneling on the sides. In wonderful antique condition with a gentle patina, there is plenty of space for books, art, and decor. This piece would have originally been built into the wall behind the pharmacist counter, evidence of which can still be found on the back. The last photograph shows supports that are provided and need to be attached for shipping due to its size. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer view of this incredible display piece.

  • French 20th Century Mahogany Vitrine

    $4,800.00

    65.13"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.

  • French 19th Century Walnut Three Door Bibliotheque

    $9,995.00

    103"H x 82.75"W x 18.50"D

    Dimensions: 103”H x 82-¾”W x 18-½”D

    A massive French walnut Bibliotheque or bookcase from the 19th Century. The straight lines and vertical motif across the crown are classic decorations of the Louis XVI style. All three of the glass door fronts contain the original wavy glass, the four interior shelves are removable and adjustable within each column. Below the glass doors are three book slides, creating a flat surface for a book or to place a candlestick. When open, they add an extra 11” of depth and an extra layer to your interior. The base is made of simply paneled doors, perfect for enjoying the beauty of the walnut and for hidden storage. Behind the paneled doors is one removable and adjustable shelf. Complete with 4 keys, all locks in working order.

  • SALELimited

    French 19th Century Louis XVI Vitrine

    $1,795.00

    62.13"H x 35"W x 15.50"D

    Dimensions: 62-⅛”H x 35”W x 15-½”D

    This handsome vitrine was crafted in the style of Louis XVI in 19th century France. Patinated brass details throughout compliment the deeply toned mahogany. Original wavy glass doors are flanked by metal inset fluted columns that feature brass capitals and bases. The interior storage houses three adjustable shelves with sawtooth joinery. The lock is functional and includes a key. Elevated on turned feet inset with brass. Its petite size and uncluttered design makes it a versatile piece that will work beautifully in any living space. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look at this vitrines’ great condition!

  • French 19th Century Rosewood Bibliotheque

    $6,500.00

    94.25"H x 60"W x 17"D

    Dimensions: 94-¼”H x 60”W x 17”D

    A handsome solid rosewood bibliotheque, crafted in France circa 1890. Gorgeous arched doors with beveled glass and geometric carvings accentuate the display space at the top of this bookcase. Four adjustable shelves provide plenty of space for your prized art, books, or oddities. A working lock secures the heavy doors. Fluted and wonderfully carved column forms flank the doors. Below the doors, a single drawer is fixed with two decorative bail pulls and a functional lock. Turned, ball feet support the whole. Two keys are included. Cleaned and polished with French wax paste; a fantastic patina envelopes this case piece. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look at the quality craftsmanship and great condition of this bibliotheque!

  • French 19th Century Louis XVI Style Vitrine

    $2,850.00

    58.38"H x 31.63"W x 14.75"D

    Dimensions: 58-⅜”H x 31-⅝”W x 14-¾”D

    This stunning vitrine is dripping with antique elegance and character! Made in the style of Louis XVI in France circa early 1900’s. The incredible bookmatched veneer has gained a vibrant patina over the last more than a century. Although petite, every inch of this display case piece has been thoughtfully constructed. The top of the piece showcases a combination of dark wood and fruitwood inlay and chamfered corners that continue down the body of the piece. Lustrous, wonderfully detailed ormolu adornes the cornice; classic egg and dart, whimsical acanthus vines, and organic floral twist. The large scrolling vine ormolu is inset into the wood on three sides and features a face surrounded by sun rays above the front doors. We love the flirty design around the wavy original glass and twisted acanthus ormoulo between the doors. The interior houses three adjustable shelves and provides the perfect way to display. Below the doors, a scalloped apron with a sizable piece of ormolu. Both of the sides are finished with fabulous inlay and bookmatching woodwork. The feet are fit with decorative brass sabots. Make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look at the great condition of the piece.

  • French 19th Century Mahogany Bibliotheque

    $4,200.00

    78.50"H x 43.25"W x 15.50"D

    Dimensions: 78-½”H x 43-¼”W x 15-½”D

    This handsome 19th century bibliotheque is the perfect combination of modern and antique! Designed with simplicity and function in mind, the cornice and paneling has minimal thumbnail carving. The richly patinated mahogany body compliments the worn brass mesh in the door panels and the cool tone of the recently painted interior. Four adjustable shelves with dovetail joinery are housed in the interior for plenty of storage space . One key is included for the doors’ functional lock. The whole is elevated on bun feet. Interior paint color is Farrow & Ball Mouse’s Back. Circa 1860. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look!

  • French 19th Century Ebony Bibliotheque

    $7,800.00

    94.75"H x 57.50"W x 21.50"D

    Dimensions: 94-¾”H x 57-½”W x 21-½”D

    This impressive bibliotheque was made in 19th century France in the Napoleon III style. Stamped by P. Mazaroz. R, a prominent French cabinet maker and artist in the late 1800’s. Symmetrical carvings throughout the piece create an appealing balance. The beautiful glass doors provide a view of the interior, featuring four adjustable shelves, making this a perfect bookcase or display case. Below the main storage is a single drawer, fixed with unique tassel pulls and well carved panels. The whole is supported by bun feet. The body measures 55-⅛”W x 19-¾”. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a closer look at the detail throughout.

  • French 19th Century Empire Bibliotheque

    $4,200.00

    73.75"H x 43.38"W x 20.38"D

    Dimensions: 73-¾”H x 43-⅜”W x 20-⅜”D

    This two-door French Empire bibliotheque is framed on either side by columns that go all the way to the feet. The top and bottom of the columns are accented with brass. The top is decorated with minimal ormolu, adding just a touch of Empire-style detail. One key is included to open the locking and latching doors, fitted with new glass. Housing three shelves, the top two are removable and the third serves as the top for a pair of drawers. Invisible when the doors are closed, both drawers are fitted with beautiful brass pulls and provide for more organization within the piece. Made of strong mahogany in the 19th century, the wood has a fantastic patina. Make sure to view detailed images to get a better look.

  • English Oak Wall Shelves

    $4,200.00

    75"H x 61"W x 9"D

    Dimensions: 75-¼”H x 61-⅛”W x 9-¾”D

    This wall shelf is massive! Made of solid oak it has seven shelves for a ton of storage or display surface area. Standing at over 6 feet tall it’s a perfect piece if you’re looking for floor-to-ceiling shelves. The turned wooden supports in the front add just the right amount of detail for such a large piece. The height of the shelves gradually gets larger descending toward the bottom of the piece. Make sure to view the detailed images to get a better look.

  • French 19th Century Rosewood Buffet a Deux Corps

    $8,995.00

    85.63"H x 54.13"W x 23.25"D

    Dimensions: 85-⅝”H x 54-⅛”W x 23-¼”D

    This beautiful French 19th century buffet a deux corps is made of solid rosewood. It has a wonderful patina and amazing natural wood design on the bottom doors. Fluted columns with carving are on either side of these doors. The bottom half of the piece is 39-⅝”H. The inside depth is 16-⅝”. The top half of the piece is 46”H. There are two shelves faced with rosewood and the inside depth of 11-⅝” behind these glass doors. Columns are also on either side of these doors. The piece is topped off with a cornice. There is one key that operates the top and bottom locks.

  • French 19th Century Counter-Top Display Cabinet

    $2,795.00

    32.125"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.

Fireside Antiques offers antique bookcases. We source many of our vintage bookcases and Bibliotheque on buying trips to Europe.  Here, you will find a vast selection of English and French 19th Century antiques.

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.

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