What is this decorative plate shelf thingy?

[Confusedhousehunter]

We have a narrow shelr that goes around our hallway. It's at about picture rail height. It's the kind you see with displays of ornamental plates on.

We are decorating and having to decide whether to rip it out. I'm loathe to do so if it's an original feature of a 1930s house?
I suspect not but can't find anything online.

It is a plate rack/shelf - and is an original feature

This sitting and dining room have one

www.bainbridgesouthwest.co.uk/Property.aspx?pid=3053549&eaid=1183&sessionGUID=2534ff2f-a794-4406-aaba-176b955f9c11

Yes, as currentname says, it's an original feature. Usually associated with Arts & Crafts and 1920s/1930s houses, although unfortunately our A&C house doesn't have this.....wish it did!

I think it is called a Delft rack and was originally to display posh plates and stuff on. Our house is 1911 and has them in the hall and sitting room.

Thanks everyone. In that case we will keep it.
I had thought it might be a 70s addition !

beautiful house!

My 30s built house has original oak panelling (painted over) and a plate rack in the hall. I had it completely refurbished last year, and this is the finished result.

Bit late to this one but can anyone advise whether the plate shelf was originally varnished wood? we are moving into a house with one and its dark wood- I don't want to mess with it if originally it was like that, but if not, think I will paint it white x

Hi I think they would have been varnished wood, a lot of the panelling/bannister/fire surrounds were oak.

yes

That's so helpful, looks like I will be keeping as they are xx