A glazed bookcase is a bookcase fitted with glass-paned doors that protect books from dust while allowing them to be seen. It is usually made in two parts, with a glazed upper section of adjustable shelves resting on a lower section of cupboards or drawers, though single-height and dwarf versions are also common.
Bookcases with glazed doors became an important element of English library furniture in the eighteenth century, as private libraries grew and designers such as Thomas Chippendale published patterns for them. Georgian examples often have doors divided by astragal glazing bars in elegant geometric or Gothic patterns, and large breakfront bookcases were made for country-house libraries. Regency and Victorian makers produced glazed bookcases in mahogany, rosewood, walnut and oak, and Edwardian makers revived Georgian and Sheraton designs with satinwood inlay. Buyers should check that the upper and lower sections belong together, that the glazing bars and glass are original, and that the cornice has not been reduced. Old glass, with slight ripples and seeds, adds charm and value. Glazed bookcases are equally useful for displaying porcelain, glass and collections, and they bring architecture and order to a library, study or sitting room.
