Globe Wernicke Bookcase

Antique Globe-Wernicke Bookcase

Globe-Wernicke was first established in 1899 when Otto Wernicke, owner of Wernicke Furniture Co bought the Globe Company. Wernicke also acquired the Fred Macey Co which also made the well known stacking barrister bookcases like the ones we very often have for sale. Globe Wernicke was the main maker and supplier of this type of stacking bookcase until it fell into receivership in 1932 because of the Depression but then it re opened in 1934. Globe Wernicke had factories building furniture in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France and Germany. The Globe Wernicke company was well known for its quality and craftsmanship, but mostly known for their stacking book shelves. These antique bookcases could fit together to create different heights, also could have writing sections, glass sections or cupboards making your own unique design. If you are interested in Globe Wernicke Bookcases for sale have a look at our bookcase section on our website or to see previous examples we have sold, see below.

Antique Barristers Bookcases

Antique Barristers Bookcases or ‘Layers Bookcase’ were first seen in The late 19th Century Victorian period. They were designed to store books or other office documents and were commonly seen in solicitors offices, libraries or Schools in Britain. This is where Globe-Wernicke got their inspiration. They are extremely collectable as they can house a large book collection and are quite a unique design.

Styles of Globe Wernicke Bookcase

This Spectacular Edwardian Antique Globe Wernicke Double Antique Barristers Bookcase dates from around 1910 and is extremely unusual due to it having double door sections and leaded glass.

Spectacular Edwardian Antique Globe Wernicke Double Antique Barristers Bookcase
Spectacular Edwardian Antique Globe Wernicke Double Antique Barristers Bookcase

This Spectacular Golden Oak design has four Graduating Stacking Sections and the Original leaded glass along with small brass handles.

Spectacular Golden Oak Antique Edwardian Globe Wernicke Stacking Bookcase
Spectacular Golden Oak Antique Edwardian Globe Wernicke Stacking Bookcase

This Antique Globe-Wernicke Edwardian Oak Bookcase dates from around 1900 with two of the original makers labels. This stacking bookcase is made up of four display sections in total.

Antique Globe-Wernicke Edwardian Oak Bookcase
Antique Globe-Wernicke Bookcase

This is a later Art Deco five height model, a classic piece constructed from Oak and features the original badge.

Art Deco Five Height Globe-Wernicke Oak Bookcase
Art Deco Five Height Globe-Wernicke Oak Bookcase

other similar designs include –

Walnut ‘Inglesants’ Sectional Bookcase, currently an extremely desirable piece and dates from around 1900. These sectional antique bookcases have many uses and not only for books. They can be used for anything ranging from simple display cabinets to drinks cabinets and even shoe cabinets creating beautiful displays of fashionable designer footwear.

Walnut ‘Inglesants’ Sectional Bookcase
‘Inglesants’ Sectional Bookcase

115 Comments. Leave new

  • Hello, I have recently been given a 6 stack (stepped 2 +4) oak Globe and Wernicke elastic book case I n good working condition with all knobs and rollers and scissor arms. It has a waterfall top and the solid base. 1 pane of glass is missing. All metal bandings are present and each section has the label present in the rear section. The base beam has patent stencilled in to it.
    I am wanting to sell this unit and wondered f you might be interested? It looks like it is in totally original condition.

    Regard, Darren

    Reply
    • Hi
      If you can please email pictures and let me know where you live I can pass this onto my buyer
      Kind regards
      James

      Reply
  • Fauhn Schierer
    October 5, 2015 2:34 am

    I have a Globe Wernicke barrister’s book case with 3 sections plus the drawer at the bottom and the top. How can I find out how old it is and what it would be worth?

    Reply
  • I have 4 globe wet ice bookcases I would like to sell
    Do you know anyone who might be interested

    Reply
    • Hi
      where do you live, are you local to us?
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
      • Diane Pearson
        December 6, 2021 2:33 am

        Looks like people are looking to sell their Globe Warnicke’s
        I am also …I have a set of four 5!-stack in very good condition. I inherited them from my late husband who had them shipped from New York in 2008. I need to know where I can sell them. I’m in San Diego, CA

        Reply
        • Hi
          Unfortunately we only buy in the UK so I can only think for you to try your local auctioneer or local antiques dealer
          Many thanks
          James

          Reply
  • Paul Thompson
    October 5, 2016 3:38 pm

    i have a 6 pc stacked bookcase. all original all glass in place with a bottom drawer. any info on value would be greatly appreciated.

    Reply
  • I have a Globe like Bookcase, stacking, no tags. Only thing, it has doors that open like a normal book case ?
    any help? Osy

    Reply
    • Hi
      There were many cabinet makers who copied the Globe design and adapted them for their clients, like adding doors etc.
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • Roxann Bilger
    July 2, 2017 6:57 pm

    Does anyone have any ideas about who manufactured the bookcases custom-sized for the Oxford World’s Classics series books? I have seen early 20th century adverts for the bookcases (in Fumed Oak, Hazel Pine or Mahogany, from “the best cabinet make”). Makes sense that it would have been an English (and London-based) manufacturer. Sounds like something Globe Warnicke might have done.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi
      Sorry not sure on this one, if it was by Globe Wernicke then it would have their stamp on the back
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
      • Roxann Bilger
        July 25, 2018 9:00 am

        Hi – The problem s I have never actually seen an Oxford World’s Classics custom bookcase. So I can’t tell if it has a GW stamp on the back.

        I feel sure these bookcases are around.

        Reply
  • chris fowler
    July 27, 2017 3:51 pm

    hi… i have one of these bookcases i’d like to sell… its only 2 stacks though

    Reply
  • I have an early 4 stack without doors. Know where I can find some pull out doors

    Reply
  • I have a four section case label inside has Globe Wernicke
    Size D-8 1/2 Grade 598
    Looking to sell any help would be great
    Thanks
    Brad

    Reply
  • I have a 3 cabinet bookcase that is pattern 809, finish 3017 1/2. Can you tell me more about the finish and year of production based on that information?

    Reply
  • Marilyn Lewandowski
    October 23, 2017 1:36 am

    I purchased a 3 stack bookcase by globe wernicke. It says it was manufactured in Cincinnati Ohio. It’s pattern is 711 and it’s grade is 2299 1/2. I wondered if you could tell me how old it might be or who I could contact. Thanks.

    Reply
  • I have a 3 stack Globe-Wernike size D-8 1/2 grade 299 top , a secretary center, and a size D 12 1/4 grade 299 on bottom. It is all and in great condition, original glass , hardware including the lock in the secretary door , and finish. What i need to know is when built approximately, how many, and a possible value. I cant find ANY comparison.” HELP”

    Reply
  • I have 2 of these bookcases that are 3 shelves each. Are they designed to be able to stack higher? Obviously with out the top and plinth which I would have to store.

    Reply
  • Eric Campbell
    January 14, 2018 7:43 am

    The Globe-Wernicke Co. Sectional Bookcase Made in Cincinnati Standard C-X Drawer Base Pattern 136= Grade 299.

    Inside there is another tag saying Indian Territory No. 3438 Ill. Oil Co.

    Perfect Condition and is from a friend in Oklahoma.

    Bottom is a drawer. It has 5 sections and is curved at the top. I cannot find this exact model on any internet site. I would greatly appreciate any information. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi
      Its an american made model Cincinnati tag but not sure on the other, maybe its travelled around in its life as so many pieces of antique furniture did?
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • This is a bit off this thread but I need a 3313 or 3314 model Globe-Wernicke walnut 278 1/2 374L top piece. If possible could you point me in the right direction. I have scoured ebay and other sites to no avail. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

    Jerry

    Reply
    • Hi
      Im not sure, I can only suggest to keep looking and also keep checking our website as we do get them in stock
      Thanks

      Reply
  • Trena Richardson
    March 18, 2018 1:48 am

    I have a three tier bookshelf perfect condition wondering the value to see if I need to insure it

    Reply
  • Elaine Parry
    April 3, 2018 11:52 pm

    A few years back. I purchased a beautiful Globe Wernicki. Barrister case. Yard sale $50. Love at first sight. Has 4 sections. Us a bottom section with a drawer. And a separate top section. Has your original tag inside. Chicago , A-C section. Art mission. Pattern#341. Grade 798 1/2. What’s it all mean. Can you help me

    Reply
    • That sounds like a real bargain that you got for $50!!! The numbers will be the design numbers, so if you wanted more than one section, you would get the same design so they can stack together and be in the same timber etc.
      Thanks

      Reply
  • I have a globe Werner sectional book case 3 tier…made in Cincinnati looking to sell…any reccomendations.

    Pattern 111…grade298 1/2
    All tags on unit

    Reply
    • Hi
      If you are in the UK you are welcome to email us pictures to see if we are interested to buy it. Otherwise maybe try your local antiques auction
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • I have a Wernicke (not Globe-Wernicke) elastic bookcase in what I think is Mahogany. Made in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Any idea what year it would have been made please?

    Thanks,
    Chris

    Reply
    • Hi
      It was probably from around 1900, but i would have to see it in the flesh to be certain
      Kind regards
      James

      Reply
  • Helen Buckland
    May 4, 2018 9:41 pm

    Hi I have a Globe Wernicke bookcase – but it has no glass doors and I can’t see anywhere they could have been attached – were some made without doors? I have been unable to find a picture without the doors

    Reply
  • Gail Symes
    May 6, 2018 2:51 pm

    Did Globe Wernicke produce any barrister bookcases with two knobs on each of the glass fronted drawers rather than one, or could this be a copy? I understand all original bookcases have a label but I’m going by a photo someone has sent me and it’s not clear. It has for stacks and looks to be oak.

    Reply
    • Hi
      Yes Globe Wernicke did produce barrister bookcases with two knobs on each of the glass fronted drawers but if it was an original it would have the stamp
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
    • Chris Lathey
      May 13, 2018 12:23 pm

      I have an early one with two knobs on each door.

      Reply
  • Gail Symes
    May 6, 2018 2:51 pm

    *four stacks

    Reply
  • DENISE MCCORMICK
    June 27, 2018 10:40 pm

    I have a large selection of panels, shelves etc which would fit to produce several stacking bookcases. ie 60 ends ( 3 sizes, 29 glass fronts, bases, 29 shelves) in oak. would you be interested in purchasing them?

    Reply
    • Hi
      If you want to email pictures, your postcode and how much you are looking for, I can gladly take a look for you
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • DENISE MCCORMICK
    September 26, 2018 9:00 am

    I have a large selection of panels, shelves etc which would fit to produce several stacking bookcases. ie 60 ends ( 3 sizes, 29 glass fronts, bases, 29 shelves) in oak. would you be interested in purchasing them?

    Reply
    • Hi
      If you want to email pictures, your postcode and how much you are looking for, I can gladly take a look for you
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • i have a 6 pc stacked bookcase. all original all glass in place with a bottom drawer. any info on value would be greatly appreciated.

    Reply
  • I have a Wernicke (not Globe-Wernicke) elastic bookcase in what I think is Mahogany. Made in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Any idea what year it would have been made please?

    Thanks,
    Chris

    Reply
  • A few years back. I purchased a beautiful Globe Wernicki. Barrister case. Yard sale $50. Love at first sight. Has 4 sections. Us a bottom section with a drawer. And a separate top section. Has your original tag inside. Chicago , A-C section. Art mission. Pattern#341. Grade 798 1/2. What’s it all mean. Can you help me

    Reply
    • That sounds like a real bargain that you got for $50!!! The numbers will be the design numbers, so if you wanted more than one section, you would get the same design so they can stack together and be in the same timber etc.
      Thanks

      Reply
  • *four stacks

    Reply
  • Hi I have a Globe Wernicke bookcase – but it has no glass doors and I can’t see anywhere they could have been attached – were some made without doors? I have been unable to find a picture without the doors

    Reply
    • Hi
      They always had doors so i think your doors must be missing
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
    • I have a Globe Wernicke writing or library table. I bought it few years ago. One of the drawers has the mark The Globe Wernicke Co. Ltd. Office & LIBRARY FURNISHERS LONDON. I looked online a Globe Wernicke tables. I couldn’t find them. Do you know if there were any Globe Wernicke writing tables ?

      Many thanks

      Sadia

      Reply
      • Hi
        Yes we have had a few examples before. They did make tables, chairs, bookcases and filing cabinets. Basically any furniture needed in the office.
        I hope this helps
        James

        Reply
  • Did Globe Wernicke produce any barrister bookcases with two knobs on each of the glass fronted drawers rather than one, or could this be a copy? I understand all original bookcases have a label but I’m going by a photo someone has sent me and it’s not clear. It has for stacks and looks to be oak.

    Reply
  • Marilyn Lewandowski
    September 26, 2018 11:03 am

    I purchased a 3 stack bookcase by globe wernicke. It says it was manufactured in Cincinnati Ohio. It’s pattern is 711 and it’s grade is 2299 1/2. I wondered if you could tell me how old it might be or who I could contact. Thanks.

    Reply
  • Hello, I have recently been given a 6 stack (stepped 2 +4) oak Globe and Wernicke elastic book case I n good working condition with all knobs and rollers and scissor arms. It has a waterfall top and the solid base. 1 pane of glass is missing. All metal bandings are present and each section has the label present in the rear section. The base beam has patent stencilled in to it.
    I am wanting to sell this unit and wondered f you might be interested? It looks like it is in totally original condition.

    Regard, Darren

    Reply
    • Hi
      If you can please email pictures and let me know where you live I can pass this onto my buyer
      Kind regards
      James

      Reply
  • I have a Globe like Bookcase, stacking, no tags. Only thing, it has doors that open like a normal book case ?
    any help? Osy

    Reply
    • Hi
      There were many cabinet makers who copied the Globe design and adapted them for their clients, like adding doors etc.
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • I have 4 globe wet ice bookcases I would like to sell
    Do you know anyone who might be interested

    Reply
  • Does anyone have any ideas about who manufactured the bookcases custom-sized for the Oxford World’s Classics series books? I have seen early 20th century adverts for the bookcases (in Fumed Oak, Hazel Pine or Mahogany, from “the best cabinet make”). Makes sense that it would have been an English (and London-based) manufacturer. Sounds like something Globe Warnicke might have done.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi
      Sorry not sure on this one, if it was by Globe Wernicke then it would have their stamp on the back
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
      • Hi – The problem s I have never actually seen an Oxford World’s Classics custom bookcase. So I can’t tell if it has a GW stamp on the back.

        I feel sure these bookcases are around.

        Reply
  • I have an early 4 stack without doors. Know where I can find some pull out doors

    Reply
  • I have a Globe Wernicke barrister’s book case with 3 sections plus the drawer at the bottom and the top. How can I find out how old it is and what it would be worth?

    Reply
  • I have a four section case label inside has Globe Wernicke
    Size D-8 1/2 Grade 598
    Looking to sell any help would be great
    Thanks
    Brad

    Reply
  • I have a 3 cabinet bookcase that is pattern 809, finish 3017 1/2. Can you tell me more about the finish and year of production based on that information?

    Reply
  • I have a 3 stack Globe-Wernike size D-8 1/2 grade 299 top , a secretary center, and a size D 12 1/4 grade 299 on bottom. It is all and in great condition, original glass , hardware including the lock in the secretary door , and finish. What i need to know is when built approximately, how many, and a possible value. I cant find ANY comparison.” HELP”

    Reply
  • I have 2 of these bookcases that are 3 shelves each. Are they designed to be able to stack higher? Obviously with out the top and plinth which I would have to store.

    Reply
  • I have a globe Werner sectional book case 3 tier…made in Cincinnati looking to sell…any reccomendations.

    Pattern 111…grade298 1/2
    All tags on unit

    Reply
    • Hi
      If you are in the UK you are welcome to email us pictures to see if we are interested to buy it. Otherwise maybe try your local antiques auction
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • Trena Richardson
    September 26, 2018 2:17 pm

    I have a three tier bookshelf perfect condition wondering the value to see if I need to insure it

    Reply
  • hi… i have one of these bookcases i’d like to sell… its only 2 stacks though

    Reply
  • This is a bit off this thread but I need a 3313 or 3314 model Globe-Wernicke walnut 278 1/2 374L top piece. If possible could you point me in the right direction. I have scoured ebay and other sites to no avail. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

    Jerry

    Reply
    • Hi
      Im not sure, I can only suggest to keep looking and also keep checking our website as we do get them in stock
      Thanks

      Reply
  • The Globe-Wernicke Co. Sectional Bookcase Made in Cincinnati Standard C-X Drawer Base Pattern 136= Grade 299.

    Inside there is another tag saying Indian Territory No. 3438 Ill. Oil Co.

    Perfect Condition and is from a friend in Oklahoma.

    Bottom is a drawer. It has 5 sections and is curved at the top. I cannot find this exact model on any internet site. I would greatly appreciate any information. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi
      Its an american made model Cincinnati tag but not sure on the other, maybe its travelled around in its life as so many pieces of antique furniture did?
      Thanks
      James

      Reply
  • Can anyone tell me what finish was used on the inside of the bookcases (where the books are placed)?

    Reply
  • Can anyone tell me what finish was used on the inside of the Globe Wernicke barrister bookcases (where the books are placed)?

    Reply
    • Hi
      I think originally they were coated in a shellac or french polished finish. Now we mainly clean the original finish using priory polish reviver
      I hope this helps
      james

      Reply
  • Hello,
    I don’t know if you’re still there as all the messages seem pre-pandemic. I have a pair of Globe Wernicke stacking bookcases that I inherited after my mother’s death. Unfortunately they have been in my father’s studies, probably for the last 70 years, and the latter part of that time the study was a room where there was some woodworm, and some parts of the bookcases have been attacked. So far I have treated one bookcase (5 glass-fronted sections plus drawer at the bottom) and I think most of it will be OK – there are signs that it had been treated before, and in some sections the infestation is minimal. However in one tall section, the back is probably a bit weakened, and I wonder whether you can suggest a solution? Replacing the wood (which is some kind of plywood, I think) doesn’t seem very possible. I wondered about fixing a piece of plywood on the back over the damaged wood, though this would obviously reduce the value, though that is less important to me than geting a working bookcase. I live in Kirkcaldy, Fife, and there is a dealer a few miles away that sometimes has bookcases for sale, but I cannot tell from the website whether they actually have a showroom or if all business is online only.

    Reply
  • I have inherited a large set of Globe Wernicke shelves and would consider selling, but some of the scissor hinge connections are broken. I assume they would need to be fixed prior to selling and if so, can you advise where I can get this done pls? Thanks.

    Reply
    • Yes these would probably need to be fixed before you sell them as it will not work correctly without but unfortunately I am unsure where you will find some, sorry.

      Reply
  • Does anyone know when Globe Wernicke began using paper labels on their bookcases. I am trying to date the bookcase I have and there aren’t any paper labels on any stack but there is writing on the bottom piece that is inscribed Globe Wernicke. Thanks
    Phil

    Reply
    • Hi
      I think paper labels and the Ivorine labels were used from around 1900 onwards on all genuine Globe Wernicke bookcases. I have seen some also with just wood embossed stamps. If it has only been hand written, maybe someone has wrote this on later as they thought it was a Globe Wernicke as there were lots of companies that copy the same design
      I hope this helps

      Reply
  • Hi there, weve just given our Globe Wernicke a clean and in the top section underside there is a half circle indentation with a short metal bar – what function does this have please?

    Reply
  • Hello, I bought an Inglesants stacking bookcase that I’d like to restore. Two of the doors are missing and one has lost its glass. I’m looking for a restorer who can help, as it won’t take much to get this piece back to its original glorious state.

    Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • Hi
      Are you in the UK? if so you could try looking up ‘The British Antique Furniture Restorers Association’ as this will list antique restorers close to you.
      I hope this helps
      James

      Reply

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