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We feature a variety of folio stands, generally English or American, made of mahogany or walnut in the 19th century. They were used in private and public libraries to read and display folio books. Today, they are useful for the home library for collectors to store and display their print and maps.
In the standard folio stand, two rectangular lattice sections that support the open book adjust with a ratchet mechanism by turned supports fitting in grooves in the legs. Within this general scheme, the forms vary. Most have flat trestle vasiform supports on either side, generally in baluster silhouette form, with the entire assembly standing on shaped legs ending in casters. Another typical form incorporates a central turned standard on cabriole legs. Regency period examples tend to be more rectilinear, while Victorian stands have shaped parts in keeping with various revival styles such as rococo, baroque, or aesthetic movement. Most folio stands are raised or lowered by a turned support in a ratchet mechanism carved inside the legs, though some have an internal metal ratchet, released by the pull of a cord.
Condition: Generally very good with the usual overall light wear, abrasions, minor cracking and chipping. Each professionally restored to tighten joints, and French polished.
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