What is a breakfront cabinet?

A breakfront cabinet is a cabinet whose center portion projects beyond the end sections. Shop gorgeous breakfront cabinets at 1stDibs.

What is a breakfront furniture?

Breakfront furniture is typically a large bureau or hutch used for displaying and storing either books or china. Breakfront furniture typically consists of three connected sections, one of which protrudes in front of the two flanking it.

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 is the difference between a hutch and a breakfront?

The difference between a hutch and a breakfront is their shape. Both types of storage furniture feature sectioned designs. On a breakfront, the center sections are deeper, causing them to project outward more than the rest of the piece. A hutch normally has sections of equal depth. Some also have protruding shelves. Find a collection of breakfronts and hutches on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

What is a mid-century chair?

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

What is mid century furniture?

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

What is mid-century jewelry?

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What does mid century mean?

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

What is a mid-century sofa?

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What is mid-century artwork?

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is mid century decor?

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

How do you identify mid century lamps?

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.

Why is mid century modern popular?

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What makes a dresser mid-century?

A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.

Were there cannons in the 16th century?

Yes, there were cannons in the 16th century. The history of the weapon dates back to 12th-century China. Historical records suggest that the first cannons appeared in Europe during the Islamic wars in Iberia in the 13th century. Find a range of antique cannons on 1stDibs.

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Was there glass in the 16th century?

Yes, the history of glass-making goes back much further than the 1600s. It’s believed that they were making glass in different parts of the world at least 3,600 years ago, maybe even longer. During the late Bronze Age in Egypt and in Western Asia, glassmarking advanced significantly and was manipulated extensively to produce vessels, jewelry, and works of art. Shop a range of antique and vintage glass on 1stDibs.

Breakfront By Century

Kitchen Breakfront

Chinoiserie Breakfront

Mahogany Breakfront China Cabinet

Karges Breakfront

Dining Room Breakfront

Regency Breakfront Bookcase

Baker Furniture Breakfront

Arts And Crafts Glazed Bookcase

19th Century English Carved Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase by Gillows

$54,578

H 105 in W 131 in D 17 in

19th Century English Carved Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase by Gillows

By Gillows of Lancaster & London

Located in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire

Impressive large 19th Century English carved mahogany breakfront library bookcase with stunning carved detail and greek key moulding.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English George II Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Modern Profiles by Drexel Mahogany & Ebonized Breakfront Cabinet

$2,360Sale Price|20% Off

H 80 in W 66.25 in D 16.25 in

Mid Century Modern Profiles by Drexel Mahogany & Ebonized Breakfront Cabinet

By Drexel

Located in Big Flats, NY

A Mid Century Modern breakfront cabinet by Drexel of the Profiles line offers glass upper over mahogany and ebonized cabinet base, maker label as photographed, 20thC Measures- 80''H...

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany, Glass

19th Century Irish Mahogany Breakfront Wardrobe by Robert Strahan of Dublin

$19,186

H 87.6 in W 104.34 in D 28.15 in

19th Century Irish Mahogany Breakfront Wardrobe by Robert Strahan of Dublin

By Robert Strahan

Located in Glasgow, GB

A superb quality and impressive Irish early Victorian flame mahogany breakfront gentleman’s wardrobe by Robert Strahan & Co of Dublin.

Category

Antique 19th Century Irish William IV Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Metal, Brass

Late 19th Century English Four Door Breakfront Bookcase By Maple & Co., London

$30,323

H 101.38 in W 90.01 in D 21.78 in

Late 19th Century English Four Door Breakfront Bookcase By Maple & Co., London

By Maple & Co.

Located in Dublin, IE

A fine late 19th century four door breakfront bookcase by Maple & Co, the upper section with the swan neck break front cornice cresting above four geometric glazed doors, with shelve...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Edwardian Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Chippendale Mahogany Ball & Claw Breakfront China Cabinet by Baker of London

$4,800

H 94 in W 77 in D 20.5 in

Chippendale Mahogany Ball & Claw Breakfront China Cabinet by Baker of London

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Circa Late 20th Century. Measurements: 94" H x 77" W x 20.5" D. Lower Cabinet: 36" H.

Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Chippendale Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Mahogany

Exceptional Custom Mahogany Breakfront Server Cabinet by Joseph Gerte, Boston

$7,650

H 88 in W 74 in D 17 in

Exceptional Custom Mahogany Breakfront Server Cabinet by Joseph Gerte, Boston

By Joseph Gerte

Located in Milford, NH

All the drawers feature brass scrollwork handles. This breakfront dates to the mid-20th century and is in very good to excellent overall condition, with only a few minor corner rubs,...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Mahogany, Satinwood

A late William IV rosewood breakfront open bookcase, by Gillows

$25,586

H 38.5 in W 72 in D 18.5 in

A late William IV rosewood breakfront open bookcase, by Gillows

By Gillows of Lancaster & London

Located in Lymington, Hampshire

A late William IV rosewood breakfront open bookcase, by Gillows, the shaped top with a turned baluster gallery above four doors with pleated silk panels behind diamond trellis grille...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English William IV Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Architectural Breakfront Display Cabinet by Drexel Heritage, USA, Late 20th Cent

$2,731Sale Price|55% Off

H 91.34 in W 110.24 in D 28.75 in

Architectural Breakfront Display Cabinet by Drexel Heritage, USA, Late 20th Cent

By Drexel

Located in Worcester, GB

Architectural Breakfront Display Cabinet by Drexel Heritage, USA, Late 20th Century A substantial and finely crafted fitted cabinet by American luxury maker Drexel Heritage.

Category

Late 20th Century American Cabinets

Materials

Wood

Very Fine Two Part Breakfront Sideboard Cabinet Wall Unit by John Widdicomb MINT

$12,500

H 86 in W 72 in D 17 in

Very Fine Two Part Breakfront Sideboard Cabinet Wall Unit by John Widdicomb MINT

By John Widdicomb

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Very Fine Two Part Breakfront Sideboard Cabinet Wall Unit by John Widdicomb MINT. Decorative forged brass window grills have hinges and can be opened to maintain and clean the glass.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Brass

Imposing Period Georgian Fireplace in Calacatta Oro Marble

$106,850

H 61.75 in W 79.88 in D 11 in

Imposing Period Georgian Fireplace in Calacatta Oro Marble

Located in London, GB

The jambs with scrolled carved brackets, surmounted by moulded breakfront shelf. 18th century, with some later additions.

Category

Antique 18th Century English Georgian Fireplaces and Mantels

Materials

Marble

French Stone Fireplace in the Louis XVI Style

$15,659

H 39.63 in W 57.25 in D 12.88 in

French Stone Fireplace in the Louis XVI Style

Located in London, GB

The frieze with carved handed C-scroll surmounted by breakfront shelf. 19th century. Measures: Shelf width: 1455 mm / 57 1/4 in Overall height: 1005 mm / 39 5/8 in Opening height: ...

Category

Antique 19th Century French Louis XVI Architectural Elements

Materials

Stone

Recent Sales

Mahogany Breakfront Cabinet by Tommi Parzinger

Unavailable

H 74.75 in W 60 in D 15.5 in

Mahogany Breakfront Cabinet by Tommi Parzinger

By Tommi Parzinger, Charak Furniture Company

Located in Asheville, NC

Lovely two-piece cabinet designed by Tommi Parzinger for Charak, circa 1948. Lower portion of the cabinet features three diamond inlay doors with brass pulls. Each side has two adjus...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Vitrines

Regency mahogany breakfront bookcase, by George Oakley.

Unavailable

H 106 in W 92 in D 19 in

Regency mahogany breakfront bookcase, by George Oakley.

By George Oakley

Located in New York, NY

Regency neo-classical ebony-inlaid mahogany breakfront bookcase in the Grecian style after a design by George Oakley. The
pediment centering anthemion decoration over glazed ...

Category

Antique 19th Century English Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Victorian 2-Door Breakfront Mahogany Bookcase by Fras & Jas Smith, Glasgow

Unavailable

H 113 in W 116.54 in D 28.75 in

Victorian 2-Door Breakfront Mahogany Bookcase by Fras & Jas Smith, Glasgow

Located in Edinburgh, GB

Exhibition quality Victorian 4-door breakfront mahogany bookcase, circa 1890. Surmounted by a tiered moulded cornice with a Gothic apron over 4 tall glazed doors, separated and flank...

Category

Antique 19th Century Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Mid-Century Breakfront by Vanleigh Furniture

Sold

H 60.5 in W 63.25 in D 20.5 in

Mid-Century Breakfront by Vanleigh Furniture

Located in Stamford, CT

Mid 20th Century Modern Van Leigh New York - Montreal Walnut Breakfront.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Walnut Breakfront by Broyhill, circa 1960

Sold

H 68.5 in W 28.5 in L 68.5 in

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Walnut Breakfront by Broyhill, circa 1960

By Broyhill

Located in Big Flats, NY

A vintage Mid-Century Modern breakfront cabinet by Broyhill offers walnut construction with upper double glass door case surmounting lower with two central stacked drawers flanked by...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Walnut

20th Century George ll Style Breakfront Bookcase

Sold

H 86.62 in W 66.15 in D 18.12 in

20th Century George ll Style Breakfront Bookcase

By Wade Furniture Co.

Located in Bagshot, GB

A George ll style breakfront bookcase by Wade, late 20th century, with pierced swan neck pediment, above four astragal glazed doors enclosing siz glazed shelves, the base with four c...

Category

Late 20th Century European George II Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Important Vitrine/Breakfront by Francois Linke

Sold

H 111 in W 112 in D 23 in

Important Vitrine/Breakfront by Francois Linke

Located in New Orleans, LA

A monumental and rare breakfront vitrine by renowned French ébéniste François Linke, featuring ormolu mounts designed by Parisian sculptor Léon Messagé.

“M. (F.) Link...

Category

Antique 19th Century French Vitrines

Materials

Bronze, Ormolu

Mahogany breakfront bookcase by Edwards and Roberts

Sold

H 106.5 in W 78 in D 19 in

Mahogany breakfront bookcase by Edwards and Roberts

By Edwards & Roberts

Located in Cheshire, GB

Large antique four door mahogany and marquetry inlaid breakfront bookcase cupboard by Edwards and Roberts. Having pierced swan neck pediment above four large astragal glazed doors op...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Large Triple Breakfront Dresser by John Widdicomb

Sold

H 31.75 in W 72 in D 20 in

Large Triple Breakfront Dresser by John Widdicomb

By John Widdicomb

Located in South Charleston, WV

Widdicomb, Dale Ford Dresser chest Measures: 31.75" tall x 72 wide x 20 inch deep. Featuring a breakfront style, sculpted finger pulls, dividers within certain drawers and a central...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Bedroom Sets

Materials

Aluminum

19th Century Victorian Burr Walnut Breakfront Wardrobe by R Crosby & Sons, 1827

Sold

H 83.5 in W 90 in D 29.5 in

19th Century Victorian Burr Walnut Breakfront Wardrobe by R Crosby & Sons, 1827

Located in Chelmsford, Essex

For sale is a good quality Victorian burr walnut breakfront wardrobe by R. Crosby & Sons of Liverpool, Established in 1827. The wardrobe has a stepped cornice above three doors, the ...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Victorian Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

18th Century French Louis XVI Breakfront Commode, circa 1770, stamped by FCFranc

Sold

H 31.5 in W 38.59 in D 19.3 in

18th Century French Louis XVI Breakfront Commode, circa 1770, stamped by FCFranc

Located in Berlin, DE

18th Century French Louis XVI Breakfront Commode, circa 1770, stamped by FCFranc A Louis XVI gilt bronze mounted kingwood and amaranth break front commode or chest of drawers, with ...

Category

Antique 1770s French Louis XVI Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Marble, Bronze

English Georgian Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase by Restall Brown & Clennell

Sold

H 93.25 in W 49 in D 16 in

English Georgian Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase by Restall Brown & Clennell

By Restall Brown & Clennell

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous English Georgian or Sheraton style breakfront bookcase cabinet By Restall Brown & Clennell England, Late 20th Century Gorgeous mahogany and satinwood, with mullioned gl...

Category

Late 20th Century English Georgian Bookcases

Materials

Glass, Mahogany, Satinwood

Georgian Carved Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Beacon Hill

Sold

H 91.5 in W 68 in D 17.25 in

Georgian Carved Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Beacon Hill

By Beacon Hill

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Georgian or Chippendale style breakfront bookcase or china cabinet with secretary desk By Beacon Hill USA, Mid-20th Century Flame mahogany, with mullioned glass f...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Georgian Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Georgian Carved Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Hickory

Sold

H 82.13 in W 67.25 in D 18 in

Georgian Carved Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Hickory

By Hickory Manufacturing Company

Located in South Bend, IN

USA, Late-20th century. Book-matched flame mahogany, with mullioned glass front doors and original brass hardware.

Category

Late 20th Century American Georgian Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Antique Georgian Mahogany Bubble Glass Breakfront Cabinet Bookcase by Vanleigh

Sold

H 80 in W 58 in D 16 in

Antique Georgian Mahogany Bubble Glass Breakfront Cabinet Bookcase by Vanleigh

By Vanleigh Furniture

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Circa Early 20th Century. Measurements: 80" H x 58" W x 16" D x 27.5" Leg clearance.

Category

Early 20th Century Unknown Georgian Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Mahogany

Georgian Carved Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Craftique

Sold

H 93 in W 77 in D 16 in

Georgian Carved Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Craftique

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Georgian or Chippendale style lighted breakfront bookcase or dining cabinet In the manner of Baker Furniture By Craftique USA, Circa 1980s Carved mahogany with satinwo...

Category

Late 20th Century American Georgian Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Georgian Carved Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Thomasville

Sold

H 82.75 in W 66.75 in D 20 in

Georgian Carved Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Thomasville

By Thomasville

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Georgian or Chippendale style lighted breakfront bookcase or dining cabinet By Thomasville USA, circa 1980s. Flame mahogany, with mullioned glass front doors and ...

Category

Late 20th Century American Georgian Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Georgian Style Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Maple & Co.

Sold

H 89 in W 73.5 in D 21 in

Georgian Style Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase Cabinet by Maple & Co.

By Maple & Co.

Located in Montreal, QC

George III style mahogany breakfront three bay bookcase cabinet, the ogee dentillated over blind fretwork cornice with four astragal glazed doors over one long and two short drawers ...

Category

Early 20th Century English Georgian Bookcases

Materials

Brass

French Provincial Solid Cherry Breakfront Bookcase or Bar Cabinet by Grange

Sold

H 81.5 in W 51.5 in D 20.75 in

French Provincial Solid Cherry Breakfront Bookcase or Bar Cabinet by Grange

By Grange

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional French Country breakfront bookcase or sideboard bar cabinet By Grange France, early 21st century Solid cherrywood, with brass hardware and accents.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French French Provincial Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Breakfront in Bleached Mahogany by "Tommi Parzinger" for "Charak"

Sold

H 74 in W 60.25 in D 16.25 in

Breakfront in Bleached Mahogany by "Tommi Parzinger" for "Charak"

By Tommi Parzinger

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Bleached Mahogany two-piece cabinet, the top section has three diamond etched doors with nine interior shelves in a vivid honeysuckle pink hue, the bottom has three doors and bears t...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Louis XVI Revival Breakfront Console Table and Wall Mirror by H & L Epstein

Sold

H 33.5 in W 50.5 in D 16 in

Louis XVI Revival Breakfront Console Table and Wall Mirror by H & L Epstein

By Harry & Lou Epstein Furniture Co

Located in Cheshire, GB

Console table Louis XVI revival console table, the breakfront marble top to the freeze having gilt metal mounts, and enamel plaques decorated with scenes of courting couples, raised...

Category

Early 20th Century English Louis XVI Console Tables

Chippendale Burl Mahogany Breakfront/China Cabinet by Century Furniture

Sold

H 82.5 in W 61 in D 19 in

Chippendale Burl Mahogany Breakfront/China Cabinet by Century Furniture

By Century Furniture

Located in Wilmington, DE

Chippendale Burl Mahogany Breakfront/China Cabinet by Century Furniture Offered is a Chippendale Burl Mahogany Breakfront/China Cabinet by Century Furniture.

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Century Furniture Georgian Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase

Sold

H 80.25 in W 45.25 in D 18 in

Century Furniture Georgian Mahogany Lighted Breakfront Bookcase

By Century Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

A beautiful Georgian or Chippendale style breakfront bookcase cabinet By Century Furniture USA, Circa 1980s Gorgeous mahogany, with mullioned glass front doors and original brass ...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Georgian Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Vintage Chinoiserie Breakfront by Karges

Sold

H 80 in W 72 in D 18.5 in

Vintage Chinoiserie Breakfront by Karges

By Karges Furniture

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Stunning and impressive chinoiserie style breakfront. Four handblown glass doors with fretwork over three drawers. The middle drawer opens to reveal a leather top writing surface. Th...

Category

20th Century Chinoiserie Cabinets

Antique Four Door Breakfront Bookcase by Edwards & Roberts 19th Century

Sold

H 90.16 in W 70.87 in D 18.12 in

Antique Four Door Breakfront Bookcase by Edwards & Roberts 19th Century

By Edwards & Roberts

Located in London, GB

This is a beautiful antique top quality Sheraton Revival flame mahogany four door breakfront bookcase, masterfully crafted in rich mahogany by the world renowned London cabinet ma...

Category

Antique 1890s English Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Paul McCobb Calvin Furniture Mid-Century Modern Breakfront, Rare

Sold

H 83.5 in W 71.25 in D 19 in

Paul McCobb Calvin Furniture Mid-Century Modern Breakfront, Rare

By Paul McCobb, Calvin Furniture

Located in Miami, FL

Paul McCobb Calvin Furniture Mid-Century Modern Breakfront, Rare Offered for sale is a rare Mid-century Modern breakfront by the iconic American designer Paul McCobb for Calvin Fur...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Period Regency Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase by Gillows

Sold

H 108 in W 87 in D 23 in

Period Regency Mahogany Breakfront Bookcase by Gillows

By Gillows of Lancaster & London

Located in Essex, MA

Period Regency breakfront bookcase attributed to Gillows. Satinwood desk interior. Well Fenestrated top. Original throughout Provenance: Collection Mrs. Henry Ford, II.

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany, Satinwood

Victorian Oak Breakfront Bookcase by Maple & Co

Sold

H 104.93 in W 116.74 in D 22.25 in

Victorian Oak Breakfront Bookcase by Maple & Co

By Maple & Co.

Located in Glasgow, GB

A stunning Victorian four-door breakfront bookcase by Maple & Co in the Aesthetic/Arts & Crafts style and dating to circa 1889. In quarter sawn oak with bevelled glass panes to the a...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Aesthetic Movement Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Chippendale Mahogany Breakfront Secretary Collectors Edition By Baker Furniture

Sold

H 95 in W 75 in D 14.5 in

Chippendale Mahogany Breakfront Secretary Collectors Edition By Baker Furniture

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Toledo, OH

Chippendale mahogany breakfront secretary Collectors Edition by Baker. Flamed mahogany banded inlaid doors and drawers. Bent glass panels individually hand glazed into the doors. 3/8...

Category

20th Century North American Chippendale Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Chinoiserie Bubble Glass China Cabinet / Breakfront by Karges

Sold

H 80 in W 72 in D 19 in

Chinoiserie Bubble Glass China Cabinet / Breakfront by Karges

By Karges Furniture

Located in San Diego, CA

A absolutely stunning chinoiserie bubble glass china cabinet / breakfront by Karges, circa 1980s. This amazing piece has bubble glass, top lighting, a pull out leather top drawer / s...

Category

Late 20th Century Spanish Chinoiserie Cabinets

Materials

Wood, Leather, Glass

Victorian Carved Oak Elizabethan Revival Breakfront Bookcase by Wylie & Lochhead

Sold

H 110.24 in W 100.01 in D 22.05 in

Victorian Carved Oak Elizabethan Revival Breakfront Bookcase by Wylie & Lochhead

By Wylie & Lochhead

Located in Glasgow, GB

A magnificent Victorian carved oak Elizabethan Revival four door inverted breakfront bookcase dating to circa 1880. With slightly domed square finals to the pediment and a moulded do...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Elizabethan Bookcases

Materials

Glass, Oak

Mahogany Breakfront Cabinet by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture, 1940s, Signed

Sold

H 90.25 in W 54.25 in D 24.5 in

Mahogany Breakfront Cabinet by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture, 1940s, Signed

By Paul Frankl, John Stuart, Johnson Furniture Company

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Art Deco inspiration in a Mid-Century Modern design. This gorgeous Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture breakfront cabinet would work great in an Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, Post-M...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Nickel

Antique Flame Mahogany Secretary Breakfront Display Hutch by Robert W Irwin Co

Sold

H 93.5 in W 75.5 in D 17 in

Antique Flame Mahogany Secretary Breakfront Display Hutch by Robert W Irwin Co

Located in Chicago, IL

Antique Federal Style Flame Mahogany Flip Down Secretary Breakfront Display Hutch by The Robert W. Irwin Co.

Category

Early 20th Century American Federal Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Two tone large breakfront with adjustable glass shelves by Harvey Probber

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H 80 in W 84 in D 15 in

Two tone large breakfront with adjustable glass shelves by Harvey Probber

By Harvey Probber

Located in Ferndale, MI

Large cabinet with adjustable wood and glass shelves by Harvey Probber for Probber. Blonde tone doors on dark stain cabinet . All in excellent condition .

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Set of 3 Breakfront Display Cabinets by Harvey Probber with Rosewood Doors

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H 81 in W 78.5 in D 13.5 in

Set of 3 Breakfront Display Cabinets by Harvey Probber with Rosewood Doors

By Harvey Probber

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

Beautiful set of three large lighted display cabinets with 1/2" thick glass shelves in ebonized mahogany featuring striking alternating rosewood doors. The set is in original conditi...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany, Rosewood

CENTURY Mahogany Traditional Breakfront China Cabinet

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H 85.25 in W 80 in D 18 in

CENTURY Mahogany Traditional Breakfront China Cabinet

By Century Furniture

Located in Charlotte, NC

A Traditional style breakfront china cabinet by Century Furniture. Mahogany with brass hardware, crown molding at top, carved fluted columns, column caps and decorative carving to lo...

Category

Late 20th Century American Chippendale Cabinets

Materials

Brass

19th Century Flamed Mahogany Breakfront Combination Wardrobe by Gillows of Lancs

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H 100.01 in W 24.41 in D 82.29 in

19th Century Flamed Mahogany Breakfront Combination Wardrobe by Gillows of Lancs

By Gillows of Lancaster & London

Located in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire

A 19th century flamed mahogany breakfront combination wardrobe by Gillows of Lancaster, standing on turned bun feet c.1825.

Category

Antique 19th Century English Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Mahogany

An Oak breakfront bookcase, locks by Hobbs &Co

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H 90 in W 104 in D 14 in

An Oak breakfront bookcase, locks by Hobbs &Co

Located in London, GB

This fabulous oak break-front bookcase is made in quarter sawn English oak and to a very high cabinet maker quality. All the shelves are original oak lipped and are all completely ad...

Category

Antique 19th Century English Bookcases

Mahogany Chippendale Style Breakfront Bookcase by James Shoolbred & Company

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Mahogany Chippendale Style Breakfront Bookcase by James Shoolbred & Company

Located in Darwen, GB

A small mahogany Chippendale style breakfront bookcase by James Shoolbred. The upper section with a breakfront cornice having Greek key moulding and a blind cut fretwork frieze, laid...

Category

Early 20th Century English Bookcases

French period Art Nouveau walnut and burl breakfront by Diot

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H 80 in W 70 in D 22 in

French period Art Nouveau walnut and burl breakfront by Diot

Located in Kensington, MD

French period Art Nouveau walnut and burl 2-piece breakfront, vitrine top with mirrored back, center serving surface with shelf above single drawer, lower section with three doors, d...

Category

Early 20th Century French Sideboards

Materials

Walnut

BOB TIMBERLAKE by Lexington Solid Cherry Traditional Breakfront China Cabinet

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H 85.5 in W 70.5 in D 17 in

BOB TIMBERLAKE by Lexington Solid Cherry Traditional Breakfront China Cabinet

By Lexington Furniture 1

Located in Charlotte, NC

A Traditional style china cabinet by Lexington Furniture, the "Mallard" from their Bob Timberlake Collection. Solid cherry wood, brass hardware, crown & dentil molding at top, ogee e...

Category

Late 20th Century American Georgian Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Asian Influenced Breakfront by Century

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H 76.25 in W 60 in D 16 in

Asian Influenced Breakfront by Century

By Century Furniture

Located in Geneva, IL

Asian influenced breakfront by Century Furniture. Gorgeous fretwork and brass hardware.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Mahogany Hepplewhite Style Breakfront, by Nathan Margolis

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H 57.25 in W 59.75 in D 17.5 in

Mahogany Hepplewhite Style Breakfront, by Nathan Margolis

By Nathan Margolis Shop

Located in Providence, RI

The craftsmanship is of the finest quality and Margolis uses only 19th century technique in the execution of this breakfront, i.e. the backboard are all chamfered and only solid stoc...

Category

Early 20th Century American Hepplewhite Bookcases

Materials

Mahogany

Painted and Decorated Breakfront Cabinet by William Switzer

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H 93 in W 86 in D 14 in

Painted and Decorated Breakfront Cabinet by William Switzer

By William Switzer

Located in Stamford, CT

Painted and decorated breakfront cabinet by William Switzer with beaded glass doors. The piece also features gold painted neoclassical details such as fluted trim framing the glass c...

Category

20th Century Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Wood

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H 83.08 in W 56.7 in D 21.07 in

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H 76 in W 60 in D 18 in

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H 96 in W 84 in D 84 in

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Located in West Hartford, CT

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H 118.9 in W 157.49 in D 30.32 in

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De Coene Display Cabinet or Book Shelf, Belgium, 1970s

$2,920

H 76.38 in W 61.42 in D 17.33 in

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H 101 in W 164.5 in D 27 in

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H 88.5 in W 101 in D 21.25 in

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Located in Atlanta, GA

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Breakfront By Century For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the breakfront by century you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, glass and mahogany, every breakfront by century was constructed with great care. Your living room may not be complete without a breakfront by century — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A breakfront by century, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Louis XVI or Victorian style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. Many designers have produced at least one well-made breakfront by century over the years, but those crafted by Harvey Probber, Baker Furniture Company and Bethlehem Furniture are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Breakfront By Century?

Prices for a breakfront by century can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $2,200 and can go as high as $1,250,000, while the average can fetch as much as $7,300.

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.

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