Antique Five-Stack Barrister Bookcase

This is a classic late 19th to early 20th-century five-tier sectional barrister bookcase, commonly referred to as a lawyer's cabinet. The piece is constructed from quarter-sawn oak, displaying the characteristic 'tiger oak' medullary rays through a medium golden brown finish. It features a stackable modular design consisting of a decorative crown molding at the top, five individual glazed units, and a base element with an integrated drawer. Each stackable section is equipped with a lift-up, receding glass door designed to slide back into the unit, protecting contents while allowing easy access. The glass appears to be original flat panes held within mitered oak frames. The bottom base unit includes a full-width drawer with two small circular wooden knobs. This style was popularized by manufacturers like Globe-Wernicke or Macey around 1900-1920. The craftsmanship is evident in the precise fit of the interlocking sections. The condition appears good overall with a warm patina; however, minor surface abrasions, localized finish thinning, and typical light scuffing around the base and drawer handle are visible. No significant structural damage or glass cracks are immediately apparent from the visual inspection.