Bookstand, Revolving

Furniture

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The Arts Club of Washington Collection

Revolving bookstand, unknown maker, wood, unknown maker.: Four bracket feet connect to a central baluster which supports the rotating bookcase. The box-shaped bookcase is formed by latticed sides, divided in the middle by a plain wooden panel, and open at the front and back. The square top is plain with bull-nosed edges.
Revolving bookstand, unknown maker, wood, unknown maker.

Four bracket feet connect to a central baluster which supports the rotating bookcase. The box-shaped bookcase is formed by latticed sides, divided in the middle by a plain wooden panel, and open at the front and back. The square top is plain with bull-nosed edges.

Name/Title

Bookstand, Revolving

Made/Created

Date made

circa 1890 - circa 1900

Time Period

19th Century

Dimensions

Height

28 in

Width

19 in

Height

12 in

Width

16 in

Depth

16 in

Location

Building

203 Library

General Notes

Note

A rotating, or revolving, bookcase is a four-sided open bookcase that can house a selection of books on each side and rotates 360 degrees to gain access to them on a central stand. Revolving bookcases first came into use in the late 19th Century Victorian period and were popular through the Edwardian era, typically executed in solid mahogany or oak. Many had on castors (wheels) so they could be easily moved around a room. The rotating bookcases is also practical, being able to store books while having a finished flat top that can be used as a side table. Early 20th century designs were modified with brass divides and decoration to display newspapers and magazines.

Update Date

September 18, 2025