Exceptional Art Deco Display Cabinet c.1930 – Caucasian Walnut, Macassar Ebony & Solid Oak

An exceptional pre-war Art Deco display cabinet / bookcase, most likely made in Central Europe, possibly Poland, circa 1928–1934.

This is a particularly decorative and sophisticated example of European Art Deco furniture, distinguished by the quality of its veneers, elaborate geometric decoration and impressive glasswork.

The monumental symmetrical façade is primarily veneered in what appears to be beautifully figured Caucasian walnut, displaying a warm brown colour and elegant flowing grain.

This is dramatically contrasted with genuine Macassar ebony, identifiable by its distinctive dark brown and almost black striping.

Macassar ebony has been extensively used throughout the design. It appears in the geometric inlays decorating the lower sections of the doors, in the central vertical details and, most strikingly, around the cabinet's beautifully rounded front corners.

The transverse arrangement of the striped Macassar veneer creates an extraordinary series of dark and golden-brown bands around the curved edges – a highly characteristic luxury detail associated with fine Art Deco cabinetmaking.

The lower portions of the doors feature elaborate geometric marquetry compositions, combining different directions and colours of walnut and Macassar veneer.

The sides of the cabinet are finished in oak veneer, while the impressive architectural feet are made of solid oak.

Another remarkable feature is the pair of large glazed doors.

Each glass panel is decorated with an elaborate cut and polished geometric floral motif, reminiscent of a stylised palm, fountain or radiating sunburst. The long linear stems terminate in diamond-shaped lattice patterns, creating a sophisticated composition typical of the decorative language of the Art Deco period.

The two glass designs mirror one another and form an integral part of the architectural composition of the façade.

The interior provides generous display and storage space with several broad wooden shelves. The shelves rest on fixed wooden support rails attached to the side walls of the cabinet, reflecting the traditional cabinetmaking construction of the period.

The cabinet retains traditional inset locks, discreet brass escutcheons and a key.

The piece has undergone a comprehensive professional restoration, restoring both its appearance and functionality while preserving the original character and visual language of the period.

With its combination of Caucasian walnut, Macassar ebony, oak, decorative glass and architectural proportions, this is not simply a practical storage cabinet but a highly decorative statement piece.

It would work beautifully as a display cabinet for porcelain, glassware or ceramics, as a bookcase, collector's cabinet or drinks cabinet, or simply as the focal point of a sophisticated Art Deco or eclectic interior.

Details

Period: circa 1928–1934
Style: Art Deco
Origin: Central Europe, probably Poland
Condition: professionally restored

Materials:
Caucasian walnut veneer, Macassar ebony veneer, oak veneer, solid oak, decorative cut glass and brass fittings.

Dimensions

Height: 173 cm
Width: 110 cm
Depth: 45 cm