Globe-Wernicke Barrister Bookcase Dark Mahogany 4 Sections With Drawer Early 1900's

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The Globe-Wernicke Company was created when the Globe Company of Cincinnati, Ohio purchased the Wernicke Company of Grand Rapids, Michigan … Read more The Globe-Wernicke Company was created when the Globe Company of Cincinnati, Ohio purchased the Wernicke Company of Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1899. The Wernicke Company was founded in Minneapolis, Minnesota by Otto Wernicke, widely regarded as the inventor of the sectional bookcase, in 1893. Globe-Wernicke is by far the most well-known manufacturer of barrister bookcases.

Deemed “Elastic” bookcases because it was the standard of excellence by which all others are measured. It was the only sectional bookcase having a patented door equalizer that controls the receding door so that it slides freely and easily. The idea that the glass is tucked up and out of the away keeps it safe from damage. It is a testament to the design that the doors in this item still function perfectly after a century of use.

The bookcases produced by these companies are usually called “barrister” bookcases because of their popularity with lawyers. Several models were available. This, I believe, is the Standard model in dark mahogany high polish stain first produced in 1907 and discontinued in 1922. This item has the original glass with occasion “seeds” visible. Grade 398 is imitation medium dark mahogany, maple/red birch, highly polished, Roman gold end hardware (antique brass).

Original Standard style 4 shelf case. Ogee, roll top edge, with 4 separate, stacking bookcase sections, a top section, and a drawer base. 3 sections are 8 1/2" tall, 1 section is 12 1/4" tall. Each section, 6 total, fit together snuggly. No tools required. Drawer slides well with new knobs added. Early older label is visible on all bookcase sections. The sections have metal strips (often called “straps”) that cover the joints between the sections, and also serve to lock one stack to another stack next to it. These straps are finished in what GW called an “oxidized” finish. Knobs are typically made of brass. The sections were constructed from imitation mahogany (birch with a mahogany finish).

This item is from my personal home and all the proceeds will go to support Outreach in Italy. Thank you for your consideration of this item and other listings. See less