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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/cutout shelf in sideboard

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Expert: - 4/4/2007


Question
I just bought an antique sideboard and noticed one of the removable second level shelves inside is cutout .  What is the reason for that? I have racked my brain and cannot figure it out.  Thanks

Answer
Hi Kathleen
Nice to hear from you.
By cutout, do you mean this is only half a shelf?
Sideboards were made with only this half shelf inside.
The reason being that the depth of the unit would not allow you to get anything that was on the bottom at the back.
And if we keep in mind that it was mostly dishes these sideboards were used to store, then perhaps you can see why.
A lot of dishes would have gotten broken during the struggle to get them from the back of the botton section.
Wasted a lot of space but thats why.
Hope this is what you meant.
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

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I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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