ANTIQUE TIGER OAK FOUR SECTION BARRISTER BOOKCASE WITH DRAWER BY GLOBE WERNICKE
With our absolute highest compliments Bay Colony Antiques takes the utmost pleasure in offering this exceptional antique barrister bookcase. This example is comprised of six sections: four units designed to store collections of books, a top unit with a curved molded profile, and a base unit that has a rounded drawer face. This bookcase was manufactured by Globe Wernicke, a premier company who began producing oak barrister bookcases along with high quality office furniture during the late 19th century. The design of this bookcase is made with a premium grade of tiger oak lumber and features four glass doors that tip upwards and slide back into the top of each unit. This style of bookcase has long been preferred by lawyers with large collections of law books, hence the name "barrister" which is the English equivalent word for a lawyer. Medical professionals, educational institutions, bankers, libraries, businesses, and private individuals began creating a strong demand for these stacking bookcases over a century ago and even today these bookcases remain as popular as ever.
This antique barrister bookcase has remained in remarkable condition and functions quite well. The original paper labels have remained affixed to the center of each interior along with the brass knob handles. The sides of the bookcase retain the original metal banding that assist with the stacking of each unit. This bookcase is made with respect to The Victorian style with an overall form standardized in the Arts & Crafts period. The front legs are styled in the manner of certain furniture makers such as R.J. Horner with either lion or griffin legs masterfully carved from oak. The bookcase has a rare lower drawer unit that has wonderful ornamental brass hardware. Barrister bookcases have long been one of our fastest selling items and we believe this bookcase will be quickly claimed by a collector who has been searching for the perfect antique bookcase.
This bookcase measures 34" wide x 12 1/2" deep x 58" tall. Three units have clearances that allow for 8 1/2" tall items and the lowest unit allows for 10 1/2" of clearance height.
