What is a Larkin secretary?

A Larkin secretary is a type of wooden case good produced by the Larkin Company, which opened in 1875 in Buffalo, New York. The furniture featured a pull-down writing surface and upper and lower shelves. Some also had side storage cabinets and drawers. You'll find a variety of vintage and antique secretaries on 1stDibs.

Why are secretary desks called that?

A secretary desk is called by its name because of its original function. When the desks first emerged in 19th-century France, the secretaries of estates used them to conduct business. Once they finished paying bills and reconciling accounts, they could raise the hinged writing surface and close the desk. Secretary desks are the workstations of choice in many busy households, especially those with spaces pulling double duty as offices by day and living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms at night. On 1stDibs, shop an array of secretary desks.

What era are secretary desks from?

Secretary desks originated in the early 18th century. They were typically used by secretaries and clerks and featured plenty of compacted drawers for stationary storage. On 1stDibs, find a collection of secretary desks from some of the world’s top sellers.

How do I date an antique secretary?

To date an antique secretary desk, start by determining the type of hinge used to secure the writing surface. Consult an authoritative resource to find out which furniture makers worked with that type of hinge. You can also look for the name of the manufacturer on the back or bottom of the piece. Find a range of expertly vetted antique secretaries on 1stDibs.

How does a secretary desk work?

A secretary desk works with the help of hinges that secure the writing surface to the rest of the piece. To use one, you simply pull down on the wooden door to open the hinge and lower the writing surface. Return the desk to its closed position by lifting the writing surface up. You'll find a selection of secretary desks on 1stDibs.

What is a barrister bookcase?

Barrister bookcases are made up of several distinct book shelf units which combine together to form the cabinet. This can be beneficial when moving, as the books can remain within the shelves and each shelf can move separately.

What is a breakfront bookcase?

A breakfront bookcase is usually a large wooden bookcase that houses either books or dishes. They’re similar in appearance to hutches in that they have glass-fronted shelving on the top and cabinets on the bottom.

What are IKEA bookcases called?

What IKEA bookcases are called varies. However, the Swedish furniture company is best known for its Billy bookcase, which debuted in 1979 and got its name from Billy Liljedahl, who served as IKEA's advertising manager at the time. Other IKEA bookcases include the Hemnes, the Brimnes and the Gersby. Explore a variety of IKEA furniture on 1stDibs.

What is a bookcase with doors called?

A bookcase with doors is also called a bookshelf, a bookstand, a cupboard or a bookrack. It is a close-sided unit that encases books and is designed to sit on the floor. On 1stDibs find a wide variety of antique, new and vintage bookcases today.

What does barrister bookcase mean?

The term barrister bookcase means a piece of storage furniture primarily used during the 17th and 18th centuries. Also called lawyer's bookcases, the furnishings featured wood construction and glass-paneled doors. At the time the bookcases were most popular, books were expensive luxury goods. The glass doors helped to protect them from light and dust. Shop a collection of barrister bookcases on 1stDibs.

Is there a difference between a bookcase and a bookshelf?

Yes, there can be a difference between a bookshelf and a bookcase. Although many people use the words to describe any piece of furniture with shelves for books, some manufacturers call pieces with doors bookcases and pieces without doors bookshelves. Find a variety of bookcases and bookshelves on 1stDibs.

Can I put wheels on a bookcase?

Yes, you can generally put wheels on a bookcase. However, the wheels that you choose must be strong enough to support both the weight of the bookcase and the total weight of all the books you intend to store on it. As a result, industrial-strength metal casters are usually the best option for the job. You'll find a large collection of bookcases on 1stDibs.

What is a good depth for a bookcase?

An ideal bookcase depth is usually between 10 and 12 inches. Shelf spacing can range from 7 to 15 inches for bookshelves, with 8 to 12 inches being the most typical. Because compact bookcases are designed for lesser volumes and libraries, they will be shallower. A small bookcase's depth is usually around 6 inches. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of antique and vintage bookcases.

What is the difference between an étagère and a bookcase?

The main difference between an étagère and a bookcase is the design. Both types of furniture have shelves. However, an étagère usually has an open back, while most bookcases have enclosed backs. Shop a range of bookcases and étagères on 1stDibs.

How much is my antique secretary desk worth?

An antique secretary desk will range in value depending on its authenticity and condition. The price can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. On 1stDibs find the antique secretary desk you’re looking for today.

What is a bookcase with glass doors called?

A bookcase with glass doors is also called a barrister bookcase. Designed in a cabinet style, these bookcases’ glass doors protect books and collectibles from gathering dust and allow guests to peruse your treasured volumes. The name “barrister” owes to the legal profession — barristers are experts in case law in England and traditionally required numerous law books for reference purposes to travel from chamber to chamber, and the sturdy and portable cabinets that were used to do so earned this nickname. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary bookcases from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do you identify a Globe-Wernicke bookcase?

To identify a Globe-Wernicke bookcase, look for a marking. Bookcases manufactured prior to 1899 will usually have the maker's name stenciled on a slat, along with a patent number or other information. Furniture made during the 20th century and beyond is typically identifiable by a paper label. Often, the label also includes a grade, size or pattern number for the bookcase. You can find pictures of Globe-Wernicke stencils and labels and patent, grade, size and pattern number reference guides on trusted online resources to assist you with the identification process. For more help with the process, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of Globe-Wernicke bookcases.

How do I identify my Globe-Wernicke bookcase?

To identify your Globe-Wernicke bookcase, search the piece for a marking. On pieces produced before 1899, you will usually find stenciled markings on a slat, while later ones will have a label. Older bookcases will frequently list identifying information, such as a patent number, which you can cross-reference with information found on trusted online resources. Newer furnishings will often display the grade and size or grade and pattern, providing you with all the information required for making an identification. If you can't find a marking on your piece, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Explore a wide variety of Globe-Wernicke bookcases on 1stDibs.

What is the best wood to build a bookcase?

The best wood used for building a bookcase is plywood made from hardwood. It is easily available and comes in many types. Laminated panels that can be glued together are also a great option for a bookcase. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of antique, new and vintage wooden bookcases.

What companies made barrister bookcases?

A few companies made barrister bookcases, including the F. E. Hale Manufacturing Company, Globe Wernicke, Grand Rapids Furniture Company, Gunn Furniture Company and the John Danner Company. Barrister bookcases are bookcases with solid backs and removable shelving units that get stacked inside. Doors that open outward and slide away under the shelf enclose each unit. On 1stDibs, shop a range of barrister bookcases.

Bookcase With Secretary

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English Chippendale Mahogany Breakfront with Secretary, Circa 1770

Located in Charleston, SC

English Chippendale mahogany broken pediment breakfront with carved floral medallions, candle light molding, four upper case glass doors with adjustable shelving, lower case conceali...

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Drexel Georgian Mahogany Bombe Form Bureau With Drop Front Secretary Desk

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Drexel Georgian Mahogany Bombe Form Bureau With Drop Front Secretary Desk

By Drexel

Located in South Bend, IN

An outstanding Georgian or Chippendale style bureau with drop front secretary desk and bookcase hutch top By Drexel USA, 1968 Gorgeous carved mahogany, with original brass hardwa...

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Brass

Baker Furniture Style French Provincial Red Lacquered Secretary Desk with Hutch

$2,495

Baker Furniture Style French Provincial Red Lacquered Secretary Desk with Hutch

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous French Provincial Louis XV style bureau with drop front secretary desk and bookcase hutch top In the manner of Baker Furniture USA, Circa 1970s Red lacquered carved wal...

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18th Century Antique English Walnut Secretary Desk With Bookcase Hutch

By Thomas Chippendale

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous William & Mary, Chippendale, or Georgian period secretary desk with bookcase hutch England, Circa Early 18th Century Figured book-matched walnut, with herringbone in...

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Thomasville French Provincial Carved Walnut Secretary Desk With Bookcase Hutch

$2,995

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$2,495

Maddox French Provincial Louis XV Painted Secretary Desk With Mirrored Bookcase

By Maddox Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous French Provincial Louis XV style bureau with drop front secretary desk and mirrored bookcase hutch top By Maddox Furniture USA, 1970s Cream lacquered walnut, with hand-...

Category

Vintage 1970s American French Provincial Desks

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Brass

Louis XVI Secretary Bookcase, South German 1780, Cherry

$8,589

Louis XVI Secretary Bookcase, South German 1780, Cherry

Located in Leimen, DE

Louis XVI secretary bookcase, South German 1780. Elegant and unique secretary bookcase with beautiful cherry veneer and Louis XVI style geometric inlays in king wood and maple.

Category

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Unique Venetian Italian Paint Decorated Secretary Desk with Bookcase Circa 1890s

$1,800Sale Price|61% Off

Unique Venetian Italian Paint Decorated Secretary Desk with Bookcase Circa 1890s

Located in Swedesboro, NJ

This Venetian Italian paint decorated secretary desk with bookcase, circa 1890s, is a remarkable example of hand-crafted artistry and old-world European charm.

Category

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Inlaid secretary with bookcase and desk

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H 86.23 in W 38.19 in D 20.87 in

Inlaid secretary with bookcase and desk

Located in STRAČOV, CZ

Inlaid secretary with bookcase and desk This beautifully decorated secretary represents a rare piece of bourgeois furniture, combining elegance and practical functionality.

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Antique English Mahogany Secretary Bookcase

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H 74 in W 29 in D 16.25 in

Antique English Mahogany Secretary Bookcase

Located in Charleston, SC

English Mahogany Secretary Bookcase with slant front desk and leather writing surface and fitted interior.

Antique George III Secretary with Bookcase c. Late 18th Century

Unavailable

H 89 in W 47 in D 21 in

Antique George III Secretary with Bookcase c. Late 18th Century

Located in Westfield, MA

This late 18th century George III secretary with bookcase is a handsome and versatile piece of English furniture.

Category

Antique Late 18th Century English George III Secretaires

Materials

Mahogany

BAKER Georgian Walnut Bonnet Top Secretary Desk with Mirrored Blind Bookcase

Unavailable

H 90.5 in W 39 in D 20 in

BAKER Georgian Walnut Bonnet Top Secretary Desk with Mirrored Blind Bookcase

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Charlotte, NC

A Georgian style secretary desk by Baker Furniture. Walnut with brass hardware, double bonnet arched top with three finials, crown molding and bracket feet.

Category

Late 20th Century American Georgian Secretaires

Materials

Brass

English Secretary Bookcase in Mahogany with Greek Key Inlay and Original Brasses

Unavailable

H 85 in W 42 in D 20.5 in

English Secretary Bookcase in Mahogany with Greek Key Inlay and Original Brasses

Located in Athens, GA

English Regency secretary bookcase, circa 1820, mahogany with Greek Key inlay on the fall front, tan leather on writing surface, original brass oval pulls, nice glass configuration a...

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Secretaires

Materials

Mahogany

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Maple

Sold

H 73.63 in W 47.25 in D 16.93 in

Bookcase with Cabinets in Rosewood, Model No. 9, Designed by Omann Junior

By Omann Jun Møbelfabrik

Located in Lejre, DK

Get an authentic piece of Danish furniture history with this beautiful bookcase with secretary in rosewood, model no. 9, designed by Omann Junior in the 1960s.

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Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

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Large 19th Century English Mahogany Breakfront with Secretary Drawer

Sold

H 104.5 in W 101.5 in D 24.5 in

Large 19th Century English Mahogany Breakfront with Secretary Drawer

Located in Atlanta, GA

A Large English George III 19th Century Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase with Secretary Drawer.

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Antique 19th Century English Apothecary Cabinets

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Danish Teak Bookcase Tambour Door Secretary Hutch with Pullout Desk Top

Sold

Sold

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H 93 in W 44 in D 22 in

Fine Russian Neoclassic Secretary Bookcase

Located in Westwood, NJ

A fine Russian neoclassic mahogany brass-mounted and inlaid secretary bookcase with a two-door glass bookcase, roll top desk enclosing a fiutted interior above three long drawers.

Category

Antique 19th Century Russian Neoclassical Bookcases

19th Century English Secretary Bookcase

Sold

H 92 in W 49 in D 39.5 in

19th Century English Secretary Bookcase

Located in Nashville, TN

This is a beautiful English secretary bookcase with extended desk. The upper glass front doors are original to the piece.

Category

Antique 19th Century Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Baker Georgian Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet with Secretary Desk

Sold

H 91.25 in W 67.5 in D 18 in

Baker Georgian Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet with Secretary Desk

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous English Georgian style two-piece breakfront bookcase cabinet with drop-front secretary desk By Baker Furniture USA, Circa 1940s Book-matched flame mahogany with s...

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Mid-20th Century American Georgian Bookcases

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PERIOD GEORGE III MAHOGANY SECRETARY BOOKCASE

Sold

H 98 in W 46.5 in D 23 in

PERIOD GEORGE III MAHOGANY SECRETARY BOOKCASE

Located in Essex, MA

Beautiful Georgian Secretary Bookcase with Beautifully Reticulated Pediment

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Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Continental Burlwood Secretary Bookcase, 18th century

Sold

H 80 in W 43.5 in D 20 in

Continental Burlwood Secretary Bookcase, 18th century

Located in Westwood, NJ

Rare Continental burlwood inlaid and crossbanded secretary bookcase with mirrored doors on bun feet

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Antique 18th Century and Earlier Bookcases

18th Century English Mahogany Secretary Bookcase

Sold

H 96 in W 41 in D 20 in

18th Century English Mahogany Secretary Bookcase

Located in Charlottesville, VA

Mahogany secretary bookcase with a broken pediment top centered by a carved urn finial, glazed upper doors opening to adjustable shelves, and a fall-front desk with a fitted interior...

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Antique 18th Century English Bookcases

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Baker Furniture Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet with Secretary Desk, 1940s

Sold

H 82.25 in W 58.25 in L 82.25 in

Baker Furniture Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet with Secretary Desk, 1940s

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous mahogany breakfront display cabinet or bookcase with pull-out leather top secretary desk By Baker Furniture USA, circa 1940s Mahogany + leather + glass + brass ...

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Brass

Sold

H 89.88 in W 40.25 in D 20.5 in

English George III Mahogany Secretary Desk with Bookcase circa 1780

Located in Shippensburg, PA

GEORGE III MAHOGANY SECRETARY DESK WITH GLAZED UPPER BOOKCASE England, circa 1780 formerly with Ginsburg & Levy Item # 401HYF25Q A rich and vibrant secretary desk from the late...

Category

Antique 18th Century English George III Bookcases

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Bronze

English Georgian Flame Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet with Secretary Desk

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H 76.88 in W 60 in D 17.75 in

English Georgian Flame Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet with Secretary Desk

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Georgian or Chippendale style breakfront bookcase or dining cabinet In the manner of Baker Furniture By Frederick Tibbenham England, circa 1930s Carved flame m...

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19th Century English George III Mahogany Secretary Bookcase with Dome Top

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19th Century English George III Mahogany Secretary Bookcase with Dome Top

Located in Atlanta, GA

A 19th Century English George III Mahogany Secretary Bookcase with Dome Top, secretary drawer satinwood fitted interior, leather writing surface and cabinet below.

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Stickley American Colonial Cherry Drop Front Secretary Desk with Bookcase, 1960s

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$3,497

H 92.5 in W 40 in D 21 in

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Located in Martlesham, GB

A lovely quality early 19th Century mahogany bureau bookcase with later (Edwardian) cornice, the highly decorative carved pierced fret swan neck pediment with a central box column wi...

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Bookcase With Secretary For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal bookcase with secretary for your home. A bookcase with secretary — often made from wood, mahogany and glass — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without a bookcase with secretary — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. A bookcase with secretary made by Georgian designers — as well as those associated with Mid-Century Modern — is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one bookcase with secretary that is appealing in its simplicity, but Baker Furniture Company, Bevan Funnell Ltd. and Ethan Allen produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Bookcase With Secretary?

A bookcase with secretary can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $8,807, while the lowest priced sells for $1,250 and the highest can go for as much as $85,000.

Finding the Right Case Pieces And Storage Cabinets for You

Of all the vintage storage cabinets and antique case pieces that have become popular in modern interiors over the years, dressers, credenzas and cabinets have long been home staples, perfect for routine storage or protection of personal items.

In the mid-19th century, cabinetmakers would mimic styles originating in the Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI eras for their dressers, bookshelves and other structures, and, later, simpler, streamlined wood designs allowed these “case pieces” or “case goods” — any furnishing that is unupholstered and has some semblance of a storage component — to blend into the background of any interior.

Mid-century modern furniture enthusiasts will cite the tall modular wall units crafted in teak and other sought-after woods of the era by the likes of George Nelson, Poul Cadovius and Finn Juhl. For these highly customizable furnishings, designers of the day delivered an alternative to big, heavy bookcases by considering the use of space — and, in particular, walls — in new and innovative ways. Mid-century modern credenzas, which, long and low, evolved from tables that were built as early as the 14th century in Italy, typically have no legs or very short legs and have grown in popularity as an alluring storage option over time.

Although the name immediately invokes images of clothing, dressers were initially created in Europe for a much different purpose. This furnishing was initially a flat-surfaced, low-profile side table equipped with a few drawers — a common fixture used to dress and prepare meats in English kitchens throughout the Tudor period. The drawers served as perfect utensil storage. It wasn’t until the design made its way to North America that it became enlarged and equipped with enough space to hold clothing and cosmetics. The very history of case pieces is a testament to their versatility and well-earned place in any room.

In the spirit of positioning your case goods center stage, decluttering can now be design-minded.

A contemporary case piece with open shelving and painted wood details can prove functional as a storage unit as easily as it can a room divider. Alternatively, apothecary cabinets are charming case goods similar in size to early dressers or commodes but with uniquely sized shelving and (often numerous) drawers.

Whether you’re seeking a playful sideboard that features colored glass and metal details, an antique Italian hand-carved storage cabinet or a glass-door vitrine to store and show off your collectibles, there are options for you on 1stDibs.

Questions About Bookcase With Secretary

What is a Larkin secretary?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A Larkin secretary is a type of wooden case good produced by the Larkin Company, which opened in 1875 in Buffalo, New York. The furniture featured a pull-down writing surface and upper and lower shelves. Some also had side storage cabinets and drawers. You'll find a variety of vintage and antique secretaries on 1stDibs.
Why are secretary desks called that?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
A secretary desk is called by its name because of its original function. When the desks first emerged in 19th-century France, the secretaries of estates used them to conduct business. Once they finished paying bills and reconciling accounts, they could raise the hinged writing surface and close the desk. Secretary desks are the workstations of choice in many busy households, especially those with spaces pulling double duty as offices by day and living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms at night. On 1stDibs, shop an array of secretary desks.
What era are secretary desks from?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Secretary desks originated in the early 18th century. They were typically used by secretaries and clerks and featured plenty of compacted drawers for stationary storage. On 1stDibs, find a collection of secretary desks from some of the world’s top sellers.
How do I date an antique secretary?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To date an antique secretary desk, start by determining the type of hinge used to secure the writing surface. Consult an authoritative resource to find out which furniture makers worked with that type of hinge. You can also look for the name of the manufacturer on the back or bottom of the piece. Find a range of expertly vetted antique secretaries on 1stDibs.
How does a secretary desk work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A secretary desk works with the help of hinges that secure the writing surface to the rest of the piece. To use one, you simply pull down on the wooden door to open the hinge and lower the writing surface. Return the desk to its closed position by lifting the writing surface up. You'll find a selection of secretary desks on 1stDibs.
What is a barrister bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Barrister bookcases are made up of several distinct book shelf units which combine together to form the cabinet. This can be beneficial when moving, as the books can remain within the shelves and each shelf can move separately.
What is a breakfront bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
A breakfront bookcase is usually a large wooden bookcase that houses either books or dishes. They’re similar in appearance to hutches in that they have glass-fronted shelving on the top and cabinets on the bottom.
What are IKEA bookcases called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
What IKEA bookcases are called varies. However, the Swedish furniture company is best known for its Billy bookcase, which debuted in 1979 and got its name from Billy Liljedahl, who served as IKEA's advertising manager at the time. Other IKEA bookcases include the Hemnes, the Brimnes and the Gersby. Explore a variety of IKEA furniture on 1stDibs.
What is a bookcase with doors called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
A bookcase with doors is also called a bookshelf, a bookstand, a cupboard or a bookrack. It is a close-sided unit that encases books and is designed to sit on the floor. On 1stDibs find a wide variety of antique, new and vintage bookcases today.
What does barrister bookcase mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The term barrister bookcase means a piece of storage furniture primarily used during the 17th and 18th centuries. Also called lawyer's bookcases, the furnishings featured wood construction and glass-paneled doors. At the time the bookcases were most popular, books were expensive luxury goods. The glass doors helped to protect them from light and dust. Shop a collection of barrister bookcases on 1stDibs.
Is there a difference between a bookcase and a bookshelf?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
Yes, there can be a difference between a bookshelf and a bookcase. Although many people use the words to describe any piece of furniture with shelves for books, some manufacturers call pieces with doors bookcases and pieces without doors bookshelves. Find a variety of bookcases and bookshelves on 1stDibs.
Can I put wheels on a bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, you can generally put wheels on a bookcase. However, the wheels that you choose must be strong enough to support both the weight of the bookcase and the total weight of all the books you intend to store on it. As a result, industrial-strength metal casters are usually the best option for the job. You'll find a large collection of bookcases on 1stDibs.
What is a good depth for a bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
An ideal bookcase depth is usually between 10 and 12 inches. Shelf spacing can range from 7 to 15 inches for bookshelves, with 8 to 12 inches being the most typical. Because compact bookcases are designed for lesser volumes and libraries, they will be shallower. A small bookcase's depth is usually around 6 inches. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of antique and vintage bookcases.
What is the difference between an étagère and a bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
The main difference between an étagère and a bookcase is the design. Both types of furniture have shelves. However, an étagère usually has an open back, while most bookcases have enclosed backs. Shop a range of bookcases and étagères on 1stDibs.
How much is my antique secretary desk worth?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
An antique secretary desk will range in value depending on its authenticity and condition. The price can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. On 1stDibs find the antique secretary desk you’re looking for today.
What is a bookcase with glass doors called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
A bookcase with glass doors is also called a barrister bookcase. Designed in a cabinet style, these bookcases’ glass doors protect books and collectibles from gathering dust and allow guests to peruse your treasured volumes. The name “barrister” owes to the legal profession — barristers are experts in case law in England and traditionally required numerous law books for reference purposes to travel from chamber to chamber, and the sturdy and portable cabinets that were used to do so earned this nickname. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary bookcases from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do you identify a Globe-Wernicke bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
To identify a Globe-Wernicke bookcase, look for a marking. Bookcases manufactured prior to 1899 will usually have the maker's name stenciled on a slat, along with a patent number or other information. Furniture made during the 20th century and beyond is typically identifiable by a paper label. Often, the label also includes a grade, size or pattern number for the bookcase. You can find pictures of Globe-Wernicke stencils and labels and patent, grade, size and pattern number reference guides on trusted online resources to assist you with the identification process. For more help with the process, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of Globe-Wernicke bookcases.
How do I identify my Globe-Wernicke bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
To identify your Globe-Wernicke bookcase, search the piece for a marking. On pieces produced before 1899, you will usually find stenciled markings on a slat, while later ones will have a label. Older bookcases will frequently list identifying information, such as a patent number, which you can cross-reference with information found on trusted online resources. Newer furnishings will often display the grade and size or grade and pattern, providing you with all the information required for making an identification. If you can't find a marking on your piece, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Explore a wide variety of Globe-Wernicke bookcases on 1stDibs.
What is the best wood to build a bookcase?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
The best wood used for building a bookcase is plywood made from hardwood. It is easily available and comes in many types. Laminated panels that can be glued together are also a great option for a bookcase. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of antique, new and vintage wooden bookcases.
What companies made barrister bookcases?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
A few companies made barrister bookcases, including the F. E. Hale Manufacturing Company, Globe Wernicke, Grand Rapids Furniture Company, Gunn Furniture Company and the John Danner Company. Barrister bookcases are bookcases with solid backs and removable shelving units that get stacked inside. Doors that open outward and slide away under the shelf enclose each unit. On 1stDibs, shop a range of barrister bookcases.

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