Beautiful antique back bar cabinet manufactured by Theo A Kochs Company, Chicago. Crafted from solid quarter-sawn oak, it features a beveled and stained glass mirror, ornate hand-carved crown detailing and whitle marble countertop. Includes the original brass manufacturer's plaque and hardware. Condition is excellent with minor wear consistent with age.
Mirror back height: 55 3/4 inches Base cabinet Depth: 13 1/2 inches Overall length: 116 inches
Hi Von,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Theo. A. Kochs was a prominent Chicago-based maker of barber chairs and barbershop furnishings so this mirrored cabinet is likely for a barbershop rather than as a bar (though you already point that out).
Founded in 1871 by Theodore A. Kochs, the company specialized in barber chairs, poles, mirror cases, shaving mugs, cosmetics, and related supplies. Located originally at 158–170 N. Wells Street, later renumbered 659–679 after 1909. By the 1890s, Kochs had built a massive factory occupying nearly two acres, employing around 250 craftsmen and workers
While entire wall units such as this come to auction far less frequently than his barber chairs, poles, advertising implements, based on what others (of various sizes) have sold for, this would likely do well with an auction estimate of $10,000-15,000
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A vintage Art Nouveau style oak mirrored barbershop wall unit
made by Theo A. Kochs, Chicago, IL,
The mirror with outset molded cornice above a stylized foliate frieze, with beveled and stained glass mirror, ornate hand-carved crown detailing and white marble countertop. Bearing the original brass manufacturer's plaque and hardware.
Mirror back height: 55 3/4 inches
Base cabinet: Length: 116 inches; depth: 13-1/2 inches
CONDITION: this appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: unknown
$ 10,000-15,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia