Compass Feet Library, 1950

This is a beautiful Mid-Century Modern (MCM) style piece of furniture. Due to its silhouette and construction, it is likely from the 1950s or 1960s. The tapered "wasp waist" shape at the junction of the top and bottom is a classic feature of this era, often found in Italian or British designs (G-Plan/Nathan style). Main features of this piece: Materials: It appears to be covered in light wood veneer, possibly blonde mahogany, ash, or birch, a very popular material mid-century for a brighter and more "modern" look than solid oak. The upper element: It has a sliding glass door (only one is visible here), which was traditionally used to display glassware or books while protecting them from dust. The lower unit: The doors feature a parquet or "sunburst" marquetry pattern, where the wood grain is arranged in different directions to create a visual texture. Feet: It has classic tapered "pencil" legs, which give this heavy piece of furniture an impression of lightness, making it seem to float above the ground.