Vintage Dollhouse Furniture - deals Lynnfield Messer Block House Corner Cabinet - 1" Scale

This lovely dollhouse corner book case was imported from Colombia and was perhaps sold by Sonia Messer although this particular piece does not have her tag. It was originally sold as part of the Duncan Phyfe dining room. Read more about the history of this furniture below.

Beautifully made of solid mahogany with glued assembly. A band of inlaid wood with a diamond pattern separates the shelf section from the cabinet below. The small nails that open the bottom doors indicate that it was earlier and dates to the 1950's or 60's. Retains the "Made in Colombia" sticker on bottom.

Made in 1:12 (1") scale and measures 7 1/2" tall to the top of the round finials, 3" wide and 2" deep. The shelves are about 1" apart.

In very nice condition with no signs of playwear. There are two tiny splits on the top trim piece that appear to be from wood stress rather deals than a result of abuse. The finish on both of the back sides is oddly irregular and the only explanation we can offer is that the original finish was haphazardly applied or perhaps the wood accepted the stain differently. These would not be visible when the cabinet is in place. Otherwise, very nice with no other breaks or repairs. Please use the pictures as further description of condition.

This furniture has a long and varied history and has been made by several companies over the years although the period styles stayed much the same. First made in the 1930's by Chester Waite of Lynnfield, Massachusetts and marketed as "Lynnfield", it was sold in high-end department and toy stores. Henry Messerschmidt took over the manufacture of the furniture in the mid 1940's and sold it as H.M. Miniatures. The company changed hands several times until the furniture was finally being made in Colombia of indigenous mahogany and imported by Sonia Messer, Bertha Casablanca and perhaps others. Production ceased in the early 1980's when the labor-intensive high quality and prices could not compete with the miniatures that were being mass-produced in the Far East. The Block House company imported and distributed it for much of its history and it is sometimes referred to, and labeled as, "Block House" although the company did not make it. Throughout its long history the furniture was beautifully made in several period styles and is one of the few vintage brands that is true to 1:12 scale. Due to its delicacy the furniture is not recommended for children.

Any other furniture or accessories shown are not included.


TB-092021 Marilyn