Compact Painted Bookcase w/ Glass Doors in Blue & Black c. 1880 - 78¼" x 47¼"

This chic shallow 19th-century glazed bookcase is distinguished by its rare full-height glass doors, divided into slender panes and framed by a stepped cornice above and a shaped bracket base below. Made of solid pine, it carries a later matte black finish with a washed blue interior that enhances the glazing. The old glass shows gentle waviness, and a small brass knob accents the center.  The light scuffs, paint losses, and soft clouding to the panes enhance its sense of history and lived character. Full-height glazing of this kind offers maximum lightness and display while still protecting books, prints, or collectibles from dust. The blue-painted interior adds depth and contrast, bringing quiet vibrancy to the restrained black case.

In a dining room it could serve as a vitrine for glassware and china, while in a study or library it provides ample storage for books and archives. In a living room or entry, it provides a refined backdrop for collected objects, layering history into the décor, and its compact footprint makes it a versatile choice for both spacious and smaller interiors.