Pair of Kent–McClain Mahogany Display Showcases

Manufactured in Toronto | Provenance: Peguegnat Clock Shop, Guelph, Ontario

A rare opportunity to acquire a matching pair of professionally manufactured mahogany retail display showcases by Kent–McClain Ltd. of Toronto, one of Canada's leading early twentieth-century showcase manufacturers.

Built to commercial standards, these substantial showcases feature beautifully proportioned mahogany cabinets supporting heavy plate glass display vitrines. Their restrained design reflects the transition from the late Art Deco period into the emerging Modern aesthetic, allowing the merchandise—not the cabinetry—to take centre stage. Today, that same understated elegance makes them equally at home in luxury retail environments, galleries, museums, wineries, boutiques, or sophisticated residential interiors.

Each showcase retains its original felt-lined display well, adjustable shelving system, and a bank of shallow rear storage drawers designed for organizing inventory beneath the display surface. Several drawers retain their original locks (no keys included). The cabinets also retain their original Kent–McClain maker's labels identifying their manufacture on Carlaw Avenue in Toronto's historic manufacturing district.

Research has confirmed that Kent–McClain was a nationally recognized Canadian manufacturer of store fixtures by the early 1920s, with their work featured in trade publications including Canadian Woodworker and Furniture Manufacturer. Their reputation extended across Canada, supplying quality commercial fixtures to retailers and institutions alike.

These showcases were originally custom designed for the historic Peguegnat Clock Shop in Guelph, Ontario, where they spent decades displaying clocks, watches, and fine merchandise. Their documented provenance adds another layer to an already exceptional pair of Canadian-made retail fixtures.

The plate glass remains in excellent condition with no significant damage observed. The original felt lining shows expected age and light wear, with minor areas of loss consistent with decades of commercial use. Interior fluorescent lighting has been added at some point during the showcases' working life. The fixtures are included as found but have not been tested and should be inspected and rewired by a qualified electrician prior to use.

A remarkable surviving pair of Canadian commercial furnishings that combine documented provenance, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Dimensions (each)

• Length: 72"

• Height: 42"

• Depth: 27.5"

Condition

Very good vintage condition. Original mahogany finish with expected wear from commercial use. Heavy plate glass is in excellent condition. Original felt-lined display surfaces exhibit light wear and minor areas of loss. Several original drawer locks remain; keys are not included. Interior fluorescent light fixtures are included as found but have not been tested and should be professionally inspected before use.

Shipping

Please contact us for a shipping quotation prior to purchasing. We regularly coordinate deliveries throughout Ontario, Quebec and beyond, and are happy to assist with long-distance transport.