17th Century Bolognese Walnut Bookcase With Original Wire, Fabric Panels, Hidden Compartments & Working Locks

Details

Description

A rare and highly architectural 17th century Bolognese walnut bookcase of exceptional scale and integrity, retaining its original wire lattice, … Read more A rare and highly architectural 17th century Bolognese walnut bookcase of exceptional scale and integrity, retaining its original wire lattice, green fabric-lined doors, and hand-forged iron hardware throughout.

Constructed in three sections with traditional tongue-and-groove joinery, the bookcase reflects the restrained elegance and functional ingenuity characteristic of Northern Italian cabinetry of the period. The facade is defined by tall glazed doors fitted with early wirework over textile panels—an increasingly scarce survival in original condition.

The interior reveals a thoughtfully arranged shelving system, including 4 concealed lower compartments, integrated into the the cabinetry—an element consistent with period use for securing valuables or documents.

All locks are present and functional, and the bookcase is accompanied by both original working keys, an uncommon and desirable feature.

One lock mechanism has become detached from its door but is retained in full. The original hand-forged iron lock plate, sliding bolt, and securing nails are present. The nails themselves are a period example, with a hammered head and irregular shank, consistent with early construction methods, and remains suitable for re-installation if desired. The lock shows age-appropriate oxidation and wear, but no loss of material.

The piece remains structurally sound and remarkably intact, with a warm, well-developed walnut patina throughout.

The bookcase is constructed in three principal sections, consistent with early architectural furniture. The sections fit together using traditional tongue-and-groove joinery and are secured by two iron shanks (10" long) that slide into the fitted framework, providing structural stability once assembled. This method of construction reflects both the scale of the piece and the practical considerations of period interiors.

Provenance:

Acquired in 1971 in a private sale from the collection of Professor Clifford Ambrose Truesdell III (Baltimore) by Professor Bernard David Coleman (Highland Park, New Jersey).

Both Truesdell and Coleman were distinguished figures in the field of rational mechanics and leading contributors to modern rheology, notably through their collaborative development of the Coleman–Noll formulation (1963), which introduced rigorous thermodynamic constraints into continuum theory. Their shared academic engagement, rooted in classical European—particularly Italian—scientific traditions, paralleled a mutual interest in collecting, with both assembling refined groups of European works of art, including Italian Baroque furniture.
Works from the Truesdell and Coleman collections have appeared in sales at major auction houses, including Sotheby’s and Christie’s.

Thence by descent in the Coleman family and presently preserved at Liberty Hall (est. 1710), Culpeper County, Virginia.

Professional inspection and third-party appraisal are welcome; however, all such services must be arranged by the buyer. This item is available for in-person pickup only, and the buyer is solely responsible for arranging packing, handling, and transportation. We are happy to provide reasonable access for inspection and pickup coordination.

This piece is being offered as part of a transition of the space in which it has been housed.

Dimensions:
Height: 7 ft 8 in
Width: 8 ft 2 in
Depth: 13 in See less