Has anyone ever seen or found an Oak Book holder/stand that could be used on a desktop to hold books in a vertical position?
I am looking at one that appears quite old.
It is approximately 18" long, has a flat horizontal plank base with horizontal square pegged end pieces (pegged like a Roycroft Little Journeys bookstand)which act as the bookends to stabilize the books.
I do not have a photo as it is in an antique shop.
Any and all information will be appreciated. Thanks!

Is this the kind of thing you're looking at:


I've seen lots of variations of this sort of book rack. There are also brass and iron versions with rails that the ends slide on. Several of these also fold down flat for some reason. There are a fair number of these that seem to be period homemade and there are lots of reproductions, with some clearly sold as such, and others not, so buyer beware.

Thank you Stonecat! I will check it out further and let you know. They are asking $85.00, so I may make an offer.

No problem, by the way the one pictured is a repro - looks pretty authentic doesn't it!

Yes, it looks pretty good. Are they still reproducing these? I have not seen any here in So. Cal. The one I am looking at is not as Art Nouveau looking, it's more angular. I am going to look at it again tomorrow. I think it may be old, but refinished...everything in the booth looked refinished . However the woodgrain looked good .

I don't think these things were a big item for any of the period manufacturers but they were certainly something that was easily made in school or at home. This is why most of the old ones are probably "craftsman" made, and some are like folk art with carving etc. They of course are also something easily made by the current group of craftspeople who make smaller and easier pieces. The newer ones are often finished to look older (a few dings and dents, the right stain, and some sloppy shellac) and they can easily end up being called original antiques. I also saw a bunch of these this past summer at a show and I was a little suspicious that they were even made 'over here' because the so-called oak looked and felt alot like the soft ash, or whatever it is, that they use in China/Indonesia etc. to make everything from huge armoires to candlesticks, so just another thing to consider. The way to look at one would be: is the quality of materials, construction, finish, and aesthetic appeal, worth the asking price, and is it genuine North American oak (preferably 1/4 cut)? If it is, go for it. LOL - so much to consider for such a small piece!

Thanks Stonecat-I will post my findings later today. I know old (American)Oak pretty well. Quartersaw is gorgeous! I saw this piece from afar and have not examined it thoroughly yet. Actually holding and looking will be very telling. You are correct in saying tha it is a lot to consider for such a small piece...lol.

Okay, I checked it out pretty thoroughly. It is Quartersawed Oak...refinished (unforutnately everything in their booth is refinished) however, a nice patina and color. There is some wear to the wood that did not look intentional, which is a good sign IMO. I left an offer and am waiting to hear from the sellers. We will see...lol

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL! I purchased the bookholder...got them down to $75. It's very nice and undoubtedly old. Thanks again for the info. Stonecat!

Another happy customer Enjoy it, and keep hunting!