Harp Gallery In the heart of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, hidden behind the dusty walls of a soon-to-be-demolished building, lay a masterpiece on the verge of being lost to time. This was no ordinary piece of furniture—it was a handcrafted back bar, a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the early 1900s. Its intricate design and rich history spoke to us, and we knew it deserved a second chance at life.
Before the wrecking ball could claim it, our team raced to the scene, determined to save this magnificent piece. The dismantling process was delicate, but with care and precision, we carefully transported it to our workshop, where the real magic began.
A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship
This back bar wasn’t just built—it was crafted. Made of solid oak, its quarter-sawn grain catches the light, creating a visual dance of rich textures that simply can’t be replicated. The elegantly carved Ionic columns and patinated brass hardware added a timeless charm, whispering stories of days gone by. But the true gems were the antique mirrors—still holding their natural “smoke,” a unique patina only years of history could produce. These features, combined, made this back bar a stunning example of early 20th-century craftsmanship.
The Restoration Journey
Restoring a piece of this caliber is never a quick fix—it’s a labor of love. Our restoration team poured over 200 hours into carefully repairing, refinishing, and reassembling this beauty. The challenge was to ensure that every single detail—whether it was the intricate carpentry, the missing jesso molding, or the faded stains—was meticulously addressed. We sourced the right materials, matched the finish, and sourced missing hardware, all while preserving the integrity of its original design.
But the real artistry was in the balance of old and new. We made sure the structure was sound, enhancing its beauty while respecting its history.
A Fusion of Tradition and Modern Innovation
While we worked hard to honor the past, we also wanted to make this bar a piece that could be enjoyed today and beyond. Enter modern touches: oversized Edison bulbs, sleek color-changing LED lights, and a dynamic sound mode that syncs with music. These updates allowed us to create a piece that merges tradition with contemporary flair, making it as functional as it is beautiful.
And to ensure versatility, we added removable wood and glass shelves—perfect for both display and practicality. This was more than just a decorative relic; it was a fully functional statement piece.
A Monument to the Past, Ready for the Future
Standing a majestic 16 feet wide and 10 feet tall, this revived back bar now commands attention. It’s proudly displayed in our showroom, awaiting the next chapter of its story. Whether it finds its place in a grand bar, a boutique hotel, a home or a historic venue, this remarkable piece is ready to continue its legacy.
We are incredibly honored to have been part of its restoration journey. By breathing new life into this masterpiece, we’re not just preserving history—we’re ensuring that its story will live on for generations to come.
This back bar isn’t just a piece of furniture—it’s a piece of history, reborn and ready to captivate once again.
