Antique Bookcases
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English 19th Century Mahogany Revolving Bookcase
Original price was: $2,200.00.$1,800.00Current price is: $1,800.00.30.75"H x 18.75"W x 18.75"D
Dimensions: 30 ¾” H x 18 ¾” W x 18 ¾” D
A very practical and fun design, this square revolving bookcase would have been made in England circa 1870 using mahogany decorated with an inlaid satinwood medallion on top. The thinly ripped slats enclosing the two tiers create visual intrigue from every angle; each shelf is divided into four sections for arranging all of your favorite books. The bookcase revolves on a cast iron center shaft elevated on casters–taking up very little room on the floor yet offers plenty of shelf space with a display surface on the top. The clean lines would work well in nearly any interior decoration style. Cleaned, tightened and polished with a French paste wax this antique bookcase is ready to use in your interior. We believe this item to be in good antique condition considering its age, and any visible signs of wear are captured in the photos. Please view the detailed image gallery for the current condition and message us with any questions.
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English Mahogany Large Shop Display Showcase
Original price was: $3,800.00.$2,995.00Current price is: $2,995.00.70.75"H x 82"W x 17.25"D
Dimensions: 70 ¾” H x 82” W x 17 ¼” D
English early 20th century shop display case in a gorgeous marquetry-trimmed mahogany frame with three glass shelves mounted on steel brackets against a fabric lining. The narrow crown is emphasized by a line of marquetry in alternating dark and light woods in a cable twist effect for implied movement as it wraps around the angular (chamfered) corners. Three glass shelves disappear into the fabric lining the case which reads as a beach glass color, slightly faded in abstract patches from blue to celadon which is a lovely complement to the warmth of the mahogany. Decorative pilasters on the front are carved with a slight groove and outlined in painted gilt trim. There is evidence of a track on the top and bottom where there was once a set of sliding doors that have since been removed for easy access and engagement with personal collections of books, porcelain, trophies, and more. We believe this item to be in good antique condition considering its age. Please view the detailed image gallery for the current condition and message us with any questions.
Shelf depth: 13”
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French 19th Century Pine and Glass Door Bibliotheque
$11,500.0099.50"H x 111"W x 20"D
Dimensions: 99 ½” H x 111” W x 20” D
A capacious, 19th century French Louis Philippe style bibliothèque, handcrafted of pine with a row of four glass-front doors for displaying treasured books, heirlooms, and other collections in a living/dining room, office or library. The clean, linear order and golden color allows this timeless design to fit any number of historic and transitional decorating tastes. Behind the two pairs of locking doors are eight interior shelves (8 ¾” deep) which are adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed. Some panes of glass, if not all, are 20th century replacements. The lower cabinet projects an additional 7 ½” inches from the top shelves customary on a buffet à deux corps, creating a shallow ledge over the four doors enclosing the divided interior which follow the order of the upper body. Each pair of doors work in tandem by a lock & key and both compartments have a stationary shelf, approximately 16” 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. One key included.
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English 19th Century Pine Bookcase
$3,300.0084"H x 61.75"W x 14.75"D
Dimensions: 84” H x 61 ¾” W x 14 ¾” D
A simple, yet versatile pine bookcase from 19th century England, that will be the perfect backdrop to display treasured collections & collectibles as well as books. Five shelves, 10 ½” deep, can be easily adjusted on sawtooth brackets to suit one’s needs. Stretching across the crown is a metal curtain rod; an unexpected opportunity for personalization with your own fabric choice whether the intent is to add visual interest or protection from dust. The bookcase has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to preserve the stunning color, please view the detailed images to see the current condition. Note that the bookcase is stable however the vertical plank on the right is slightly bowed (view the image gallery).
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French 19th Century Pine Bibliotheque
$9,500.00101"H x 58.38"W x 21"D
Dimensions: 101” H x 58 ⅜” W x 21” D
This French dark pine bookcase from the late 19th century makes a dramatic statement by its scale alone, and the crackled texture of the painted interior gives it visual intrigue to anchor any kitchen, dining room, library, or office. Below an understated cornice, two tall glass-front doors provide visibility to regard the contents on three shelves (approximately 12 ½” deep) which are adjustable. Note doors are fitted so the right side contains the lock while the left door uses a slide-bolt for security. The panes exhibit the unmistakable wavy surface and bubbles of antique glass. In subtle contrast to the chalky interior, the pine construction has taken on a deep and rich brown tone like mahogany to integrate with many other historic design styles. The lower section of the unit offers two drawers over an undivided cabinet for (less visible) storage and organization. The drawers retain their keyhole escutcheons however the locks have been removed. Behind the two locking doors of the lower cabinet is a stationary shelf, 16” deep, spanning the full width of the interior. 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 Pitch Pine Bibliotheque
$14,500.00113.50"H x 79"W x 21.25"D
Dimensions: 113 ½” H x 79” W x 21 ¼” D
A towering, French 19th century Louis Philippe period bibliothèque, handcrafted from pine which has natural luminosity within the grain and three glass-front doors to display in an office, library, or living room. The clean lines allow this timeless design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes. Below the crested cornice are tall doors which have retained their original panes of glass, texturized by waves and small bubbles that complement the animated striations in the wood. Behind the locking doors are five 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. 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. Three keys included.
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English Painted & Ebonized Large Bookcase
$9,800.0097.38"H x 97.50"W x 20"D
Dimensions: 97 ⅜” H x 97 ½” W x 20” D
This English bookcase from the late 19th century (or early 1900s) makes a dramatic statement for any interior by its scale 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, soaring glass-front doors of the bookcase provide visibility to regard the contents of the two cabinets, using three shelves each (13 ¾” deep) adjustable on sawtooth brackets. The first three doors (from left to right) exhibit the unmistakable wavy surface of antique glass however the fourth and fifth panes might be more modern replacements. In contrast to the ebonized exterior, the back and shelves of the interior have been painted an ethereal blue-gray to further illuminate and highlight the contents. Delineating the upper and lower bodies are two small, retractable shelves that can slide out as needed to place something like a book being removed or filed back in the stacks. The lower body of the unit–protruding slightly beyond the shelves like a “buffet a deux corps”–offers locking cabinets for (less visible) storage and organization. Each shelf measures 16 ¾” deep, adjustable on sawtooth brackets for your convenience. Cleaned, tightened and polished, this monumental storage piece is ready to astound in your interior. Please view the detailed images to see more. Three keys included to share between the locks.
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French Vintage Wall-Mounted Cabinet
Original price was: $1,400.00.$1,100.00Current price is: $1,100.00.53"H x 41"W x 8.25"D
Dimensions: 53” H x 41” W x 8 ¼” D
This French vintage wall-hanging cabinet is an unexpected storage solution for a small kitchen or bathroom, when floor space is limited and style is important. Crafted of pine that has been painted a frosty blue-gray, the shallow cabinet of three shelves is tall and wide, using a pair of glass-front doors to allow for full visibility of the contents. The right-side door is fitted with the pantry latch while the left door hooks on to the middle shelf for security. Please view the detailed images to see more of this versatile cabinet and the current condition.
Shelf depth: 5 ¾”
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French Late 19th Century Oak Corner Bookcase
$19,995.0097"H x 154"W x 80.75"D
Dimensions: 97” H x 154” W x 80 ¾” D
A breathtaking late 19th century Louis XV-style corner bookcase from France once part of a grand library, all hand-crafted in oak offering both open shelving and closed storage. The mammoth installation is actually composed of several sections that will require reassembly. Originally made as a built in unit, you can see notches on each end where the baseboards were cut into the side. More recent back boards enclose the shelves giving them a more finished and custom appearance transforming any library, office, or living room. The long axis (when facing) is divided into five columns of niches at varying widths on the top section, fitted with adjustable shelves on sawtooth brackets. Each shelf is approximately 8 ¼” in depth. Below, a line of sliding cabinet doors glide on recessed tracks, opening to three distinct compartments with a shelf inside measuring approximately 12” deep. A Louis XV influence is evident in the shape of the raised panels on the door fronts that creates a pleasing repetition of sinuous lines. Note the door closest to the corner is only decorative. The shorter axis to the right has two columns of bookshelves on the top section (four shelves each) over three compartments in the lower body. Please view the detailed images to see more.
Depth of base units: 15 ¾”
Measurements along each wall: 154” L x 80 ¾” W -
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 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 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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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” -
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 -
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 19th Century Walnut Bibliotheque
$24,500.0099.25"H x 109"W x 19.50"D
Dimensions: 99-¼”H x 109”W x 19-½”D
This large Louis Philippe bibliotheque is a magnificent way to display or store any precious decor items in your home or office. Unlocking the four glass front doors reveals a single interior cavity with three dovetail adjustable shelves. The lower storage area is bisected in the middle with a pair of paneled doors revealing each cavity- both lower locks are functioning as well. Four keys are included, one for each functioning lock. The solid walnut has gained a wonderful patina and showcases the distinctive wood grain. Make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look at its current condition of this fantastic storage piece.
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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.