Book Press

Date1810-1820

MediumMahogany, white pine, and maple

DimensionsOH: 87 1/4"; OW: 62"; OD: 17 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1971-375

DescriptionBookcase in two sections (upper section composed of five separate pieces - cornice, center bookcase section, two wings, and backboard - which screw together.
Upper Section: Cove molded cornice, stepped forward at center; central carcass fronted with pair of glazed doors, each with eight panes, the upper two in gothic form, divided by molded mullions; doors open to reveal four shelves, each faced with molded mahogany strip; shelves fit in on slotted runners and each shelf is adjustable within a limited area; original lock on right door, faced with brass bound keyhole escutcheon; central section flanked on either side with wing section recessed behind, following outline of cornice; each wing similar in plan to center section, but with only single door; three shelves in each, adjustable at any level.
Lower Section: Flat top, unfinished at rear, divided toward front by raised mahogany molding behind which upper section fits; solid mahogany strip in front of molding on front and sides, projecting forward at center to follow profile of upper section, and molded on front and sides; beneath top, front consists of projecting center section with flanking wings; the center faced with pair of rectangular solid doors, each with central panel surrounded by bead molding; right door has brass-bound keyhole escutcheon; wing sections have single doors, each with ring pull; single, unfinished pine shelf behind each section, piece terminates in plain fronted base, projecting forward at center and molded on upper edge.
Inscribed"June 12, 1792" on upper inside rail of left center door of lower section.
"J" or "G" painted in script on backboard.