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This is a beautiful and authentic piece of late 19th century Italian craftsmanship - A gorgeous Sorrento Ware Expanding Book Slide (Book Trough) Circa 1880s
This piece was originally hand crafted in the coastal town of Sorrento Italy as a luxury souvenir for wealthy European and American tourists who were embarking on the historic "Grand Tour"
It features a clever flat folding travel design paired with breathtakingly detailed woodwork.
1 - The wood is a solid warm olive wood base topped with a rich heavily figured burr walnut veneers
2 - The Marquetry - the central panel boasts an intricate hand cut fruitwood inlay scene depicting traditional Italian figures/peasants
3 - The End panels are two folding flaps that feature a beautifully mirrored pair of classical mythical chimera (or maybe sea griffins) framed by a delicate checkerboard border.
The book hinges on this piece are in very good shape and are not wobbly or loose. The folding end flaps stay firmly upright when in used. The sliding wooden dovetail track on the base operate smoothly allowing you to easily adjust the width to hold more or less books on a desk or library table
Antique Condition...
As expect for a utilitarian piece that is about 140 years old - this piece does show gentle signs of time
1 - There is minor historic veneer chipping to the dark diamond borders along the outer edges and hinge line and one round edge
2 - The underside of the base retains some old light colored adhesive residue where felt padding was previously attached to protect tabletop's. Please review the close up photos before purchasing.
This is a perfect statement piece for curated interiors. So many styles... would look fabulous in a book filled Dark Academian library. Great piece for layered Grandmillennial library. Would be a treasured addition to your collection of Grand Tour antiques. This exquisite Sorrento book slide elevates any space and serves as the ultimate functional desk accessory - Displaying leather bound books would bring about a sense of historic scholarship and old world sout to a modern desk. The intricate hand cut marquetry seamlessly complements the timeless pattern rich layers of the English Country House aesthetic. The authentic Italian craftsmanship makes it a standout piece for purists who cherish the romantic history of the 19th century
It is simply a stunning piece no matter how you style it!
Please note that all vintage antique or secondhand items will have some level of wear - even if it is small
Your order will always be packaged with great care!
Picture are considered part of the description, please feel free to message me with any questions.
And Lastly ...
Shipping, Shipping and More Shipping...
The USPS increased shipping by 8% to offset the cost of fuel. Sadly this will increase my shipping costs slightly
Books Not Included...
