Furniture, Library Book Stand, Large Adjustable, Mahogany, English, 19th C.

Folio Atlas Adjustable Table Reading Stand
English: Second Half 19th Century
Mahogany
35.5 x 21.75 x 2.25 inches (as lying flat)
$3,900

An unusually large and very rare double-ratchet adjustable portable table reading or display stand for an opened large folio atlas or folio book. The stand is rectangular with slat cross bars. Both the pitch of the book and the degree to which it is opened can be adjusted on two different levels, each with separate ratchet mechanism set by hand. On the lower level, the stand tips forward to support the book at the desired pitch between vertical and horizontal. On the upper level, the leaves can be close inward or opened outward to hold the book open to the desired degree. When in use, two rectangular levers at the bottom of the second level may be pulled up as a ledge support the book; they lay flat, hidden in a recess, when not in use.

This is practical and attractive stand accommodates large books and therefore is ideal for displaying atlases; it is the only example of this size we have ever seen. It is easy to move from one table to another, and folds flat for storage.

Condition: Generally very good with the usual overall shrinkage and wear; recently French polished.