An impressive, yet compact in its size, antique shop counter/haberdashery display cabinet by Courtney, Pope & Co., British store fitters, combining a substantial timber base with large framed glass panels, solid brass framing and two adjustable glass display shelves.
Courtney, Pope & Co. were established British shopfitters specialising in the design and manufacture of shop fronts, interior fittings and display furniture. By the early 20th century, the company was already undertaking prominent commercial work, including shop fittings for Mappin & Webb, and was documented as an established London shopfitting firm by the First World War.
Judging by the construction, detailing and maker's plaque, we would place this particular counter circa 1920s–1940s, although an exact production date has not been confirmed. Originally designed as a commercial retail counter, cabinets of this type allowed haberdashery, clothing accessories, jewellery or other smaller merchandise to be displayed securely while remaining clearly visible to customers. The adjustable internal glass shelves could be repositioned to accommodate merchandise of different heights.
The cabinet has a wonderfully open appearance, with glass to the front and sides framed by slender solid brass sections. This sits above a solid timber plinth with moulded detailing and short block feet, giving the otherwise transparent upper section a substantial base. The original Courtney, Pope & Co. Store Fitters brass maker's plaque remains attached to the timber frame.
No longer limited to its original retail purpose, it makes an exceptional home display cabinet for collections, glassware, ceramics, books and decorative objects, while still retaining the unmistakable character of an early shop interior.
Condition:
The timber has been lightly restored and resealed to ensure authenticity remains, while the brass framework has been carefully cleaned, retaining some age-related patina and wear. The two glass display shelves remain in place and are adjustable via the original internal supports. Overall, the piece presents extremely well while retaining the appropriate signs of age and commercial use. The glass doors that would originally have enclosed the back of the cabinet are no longer present, leaving the rear open for easy accessibility.
Dimensions:
137cm W x 61cm D x 90cm H
Shipping Information:
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Note/Disclaimer:
Our images form part of the item description. While we make every effort to restore our furniture to its original state, most pieces date from the 1950s to the late 1970s. As a result, and despite restoration, signs of their vintage nature and previous life may still be visible. Light traces of restoration may remain visible, consistent with authentic vintage furniture. In some cases, minor adjustments may also have been made during the restoration process to ensure the piece remains functional and usable. We will point out any notable aspects where possible. We encourage in-store viewing or careful review of photographs before purchase.
Transport & Handling Note:
All items are carefully wrapped and prepared for transport by us (not the courier) to ensure safe handling. Once items leave our premises, we cannot take responsibility for their treatment by third-party transporters. We strongly recommend arranging goods-in-transit insurance for comprehensive protection.
Due to the fragility of glass, we do not recommend shipping glass items outside of Gauteng.
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