Posted 10 years ago
jennifer.h…
(1 item)
This piece is driving me crazy in trying to identify...
After extensive research, here's what I think it is:
A 1920's walnut radio cabinet converted to a radiobar or linen cabinet post Depression
1st: there are no markings to identify. bummer!
Underneath there are circular cut outs in the original bottom, the same cutouts that exist in other radio cabinets, however, there is a custom fit matching solid wood shelf that sits on top of it with no cut outs. (retrofit?) The piece is so nice that I don't want to remove the custom fit shelf because it is very fixed and I'm afraid it may cause damage in trying to identify it that way.
So, I'm thinking...perhaps it was originally built in the late 20's to accommodate a radio/speaker set, the Depression hit and all radio console production stops. Post-Depression...it's repurposed by MANUFACTURER (unknown) as a more functional piece to be used as a linen cabinet, dresser, a bar OR a radio.
lowboy - due to the leg height to overall height ratio...although, some consider height from floor a way to determine whether it is a lowboy or a highboy
I originally thought maple, but now think it is walnut. It does have a very thin veneer that looks most like walnut. Aside from the veneer finish, it is solid wood.
2nd theory...it is not American, or it is a custom piece. The legs are really throwing me on this. I cannot find the leg style anywhere.
The cabinet almost seems like an American, English, German hybrid with it's sturdy, squatty posture, decorative legs and decorative veneer.
It is a really nice, sturdy piece...just trying to decide whether or not I should restore or repurpose...and "what the heck is it?!"
44' height
26.5' width
16' depth
Specific questions:
Is it walnut?
Is it 1920's era
What style are the legs?
Is it custom or mass produced?
Is it valuable?
Should I restore or repurpose with a modern style?
The hippie lady I got it from for $20 said she thought it was a 1928 radio cabinet. It was owned by her aunt Edith Ann, was in her family for years. That's all I know!
I may just give it to you if you can tell me what it is...end my misery...haha.
Thanks, J
Thanks, Phil...I could only post 4 photos, but there is nothing too distinct about the inside. There are 2 solid wood shelves, one at the bottom and one placed midway within the cabinet. Thanks for the input!
I also removed the dangly brass pulls from the front. The left side would not open, so I removed all hardware. I eventually got it open by gently pushing a small flathead screwdriver on the left side release from the inside. I think it just been closed for so long it got jammed.