This awesome pair of late 19th century English bamboo what-not shelves are in very good original condition. Each having three shelves, for displaying a fine collection of jade and ivory statues all the way to perfume bottles or fine crystal. One thing that's rather unique is that the japanned Chinoiserie decorations are on the bottoms of each shelf and not on the tops. Whomever originally designed these wall etageres, did so remarkably well. The late Victorian era, from the 1860's until the end of the 19th century, sees the rise of two movements in furniture design in England, the Arts and Crafts movement and the Aesthetic or Art Furniture movement. Alongside these important developments there was also a number of revivals of antique styles of earlier centuries, new foreign influences, and the late rise of the avant garde. In 1853 trade lines with Japan were opened and interest among those in search of novelty such as E.W. Godwin and Bruce Talbert grew in the tradition of Japanese craftsmanship and decoration motifs. As a result some amount of black and ebonized furniture was made in the late Victorian era with Japanese painted fretwork panels and imitation bamboo arms, legs, and accents. Japanned is most often a heavy black lacquer, almost like enamel paint. The European technique uses varnishes that have a resin base, similar to shellac, applied in heat-dried layers which are then polished, to give a smooth glossy finish. It can also come in reds, greens and blues. Originating in India, China and Japan as a decorative coating for pottery, it made its way into Europe by the 17th century. In the late 17th century, high European demand and rumours that higher quality pieces were not exported led to production starting in Italy. Its traditional form can be found using gold designs and pictorials, contrasting with the black base color.Perfect accents in most any setting from a posh antique filled parlor, to soething more modern and streamlined, or even something called Hollywood Regency! A special pair, that have remained together for well over 100 years. Condition* In nice restored condition.

No Reserve

This item ships from Chicago, IL.

good, antique