

Lawyers were especially fond of the revolving bookcase style, as they allowed easy access to everyday law books. Revolving bookcases experienced a revival as more people transitioned into offices and scholarly studies. Dig deep into a search and you’re likely to happen across more delicate specimens, some with brass railings and fluted pedestal legs that perhaps have more in common with a magazine rack than a bookshelf. As the style was also popular in the Edwardian era. Not all Victorian revolving bookcases are Arts and Crafts style, of course. Sunbursts, florets, and crossbandings were all popular motifs in the day and were readily splayed across revolving bookcase tops. More ornate versions would occasionally come outfitted with inlaid tops. Most showcase the Shaker-like simplicity that governed the Arts and Crafts style of the day and use humble woods like oak or mahogany in their construction. In addition to elaborate ornamentation on the sides and top, these early rotating bookcases typically feature doors so that books are entirely hidden from view.īy comparison, Victorian revolving bookshelves are prolifically pared down. Visually speaking, these antique revolving bookshelves are much more elaborate than their 19th century predecessors. In ancient times, rotating bookcases were used by Buddhist monks to stow their monumental texts.

Rotating bookshelves came into vogue in the late Victorian period, although their origins can be traced as far back as 8th century China. Some feature a lazy susan style base while others come equipped with a pronged pedestal. To provide rotation, revolving bookcases are typically outfitted with revolving bases. The sides of the bookcase are usually encased by slats of wood which provide structural support to books while also allowing the end books to show off their covers. Similar to a tiered side table, a rotating bookcase comes equipped with two to three shelves attached by a central post. Use our size filters to quickly locate shelves in different heights, should you be looking for a design that can also function as a side table or as a stand-alone shelf. Browse designs in oak, mahogany, maple, and more. Discover shelves in square designs as well as drum designs and explore shelves in a wide array of different woods.


For shoppers like you, that means you’re given access to an unrivaled selection of spinning bookcase designs. Unlike other online retailers, all of our shelves are also hand-vetted by our in-house curation team to ensure they possess both style and quality, too. and Europe to discover the most exceptional shelves available. We partner with thousands of vintage dealers located all over the U.S. If you’re in the market for an antique revolving bookcase, you’ll find no shortage of options here at Chairish. The geometric design is also perfect for Art Nouveau and craftsman enthusiasts, however, broadening the appeal of these versatile shelving units. A style beloved by the Victorians, revolving bookcases are typically found in Edwardian styles. Viva les revolving bookcases! Whether you’re looking to usher library vibes into your home, or you’re simply looking for a side table that’s as practical as it is stylish, be sure to check out our collection of revolving bookcase designs here at Chairish.
