Antique Walnut Folding Wall Magazine Rack

A folding wall book rack in turned walnut, made to hang on the wall and hold a row of books along its length. The bead-and-spindle bars collapse flat when the rack is empty and open out to hold books when in use, with two chains taking the weight between the posts. This collapsing action comes out of the campaign furniture tradition, where folding and knockdown book racks were built to travel and to be hung wherever they were needed. The appeal here is the turning. Every bar is worked in a continuous run of beads and spindles, a lathe technique called bobbin turning that Victorian and Edwardian makers used to show off their skill. It dates to around the turn of the twentieth century.

[d]Type | Folding wall book rack

[d]Material | Turned walnut or walnut-stained hardwood

[d]Origin | England

[d]Age | Circa 1890 to 1910, late Victorian to Edwardian

[d]Style | Bobbin turned, campaign tradition

[d]Mechanism | Folds flat when empty, opens to hold books, two chain stays

[d]Mounting | Wall hanging

[d]Size | 14 in H x 18 in W x 8.5 in D

[condition]

The book rack is in good antique condition with honest wear consistent with age and use. The turned bars, end posts, and finials are all intact with no breaks to the beadwork. Both chains are present and connect the posts to carry the weight when the rack is open. There is an old metal pin or screw fixing at one post and a repair or re-attachment at one chain fitting, both consistent with a working piece that has been used and maintained over its life. The finish shows light surface wear and a warm patina throughout. The folding action opens and collapses as intended. No active woodworm noted, though buyers should review the detailed photos.