Burl Wood Inlaid Folding Book Troft, Europe, Early 20th Century

A rare and beautifully made folding wooden book troft or book carrier, its surface covered in a rich burl wood veneer and decorated with inlaid chevron patterns in contrasting lighter wood tones. The two upright ends are connected by a flat base panel, and the piece folds flat for storage via a central hinge. The warm, deeply figured burl surface has a lovely luminosity and patina, making this as much a decorative object as a functional one. An elegant and unusual piece of decorative woodwork.