Description: This is a particularly interesting antique English mahogany shop display cabinet, dating to circa 1915, offering a wonderful glimpse into how shops once displayed and accessed their merchandise.
Originally made for commercial use, the cabinet is beautifully finished on all sides and was designed to be viewed from two very different perspectives. The glazed side would have faced the customer, allowing the contents of the cabinet to be clearly displayed, while the solid timber side would have been positioned behind the counter for the shopkeeper. Two solid doors provided easy access to the merchandise without disturbing the display from the customer’s side.
The mahogany cabinet has lovely period detailing throughout. The shopkeeper’s side features two panelled doors with decorative brass ring handles and keyholes, an oval moulded panel to the upper door, carved floral corner details, fluted decoration and a beautifully carved scrolling frieze across the top. It stands on slender turned front legs, giving what is essentially a practical shop fitting a surprisingly elegant appearance.
Today, it could once again serve as a distinctive display cabinet for a shop, boutique, or showroom, but we think it could be equally impressive in a home. Position the glazed side towards a painted or wallpapered wall and, when the solid front doors are opened, the colour or pattern of the wall becomes the backdrop to whatever is displayed inside. It is an unusual way to display glassware, china, books or favourite pieces while keeping the decorative mahogany cabinet doors as the main feature when closed.
A beautiful and unusual example of early 20th-century English shop furniture that has remained both practical and visually interesting for more than a century.
Stock No: 13091
Circa: 1915
Measurements: 113 cm high x 52 cm wide x 42 cm deep.
Condition: Exceptional, cleaned, waxed, polished and ready for immediate use.
Origin: England
Material: Mahogany and Glass
Collection: This piece is available for pickup at Because Antiques and Interiors, Smeaton Grange, NSW 2567. We welcome pickups. However, we're here to help arrange courier quotes if you're unable to pick it up. Please feel free to contact us for a delivery quote to your area. When checking out, please select the option that best meets your needs.
Courier: Need a quote? At checkout, you'll see the local pickup option. Please note that we offer affordable delivery services; however, these fees cannot be automatically calculated as they vary by location. For a personalised delivery quote, please call or text Pam on 0401 510 510 or email Pam at because@antiquesandinteriors.com.au
Terms and Conditions: The small stuff. Our furniture is always pre-loved, primarily antiques, some in their original condition and others sympathetically restored. Over lifetimes, each piece has developed its character and patina, which antique lovers expect as an integral aspect of age. Our photos and description help you assess the item for sale, but it's up to you to decide if it suits your needs. Our items are sold AS-IS, and we welcome inspection by appointment at our Smeaton Grange showroom. If you cannot inspect them in person, please ask any questions before you buy, as returns are not accepted on these items.
* Keys and locks can be fiddly; they are not guaranteed to work perfectly.
* The final sale price includes GST: ABN 91 827 962 097, Mitchell Keep Pty Ltd.' As Trustee of the Mitchell Keep Unit Trust, trading as *Because* Antiques and Interiors.
* Second-hand, antique and collectable items are sold AS-IS. Please review the description and all photographs carefully.
* Thank you for supporting our small business; we hope you love your Because Antique piece: Pam, Kate, Michael and the team at Because.