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Pair of 1920s Brass Figurative Bookends with White Onyx Base

About the Item

This pair of vintage brass and white onyx bookends dates to the 1920s and are clearly inspired by Rodin's 'The Thinker.' From time to time, similar bookends will surface, but differing significantly in craftsmanship. This pair is stunning and rare to find for their uncommonly large sizes (each standing 9" tall), design detail (each figure is positioned just a bit differently), and deep, rich, lustrous 'old brass' patina. The pair is heavily weighted cast-bronze, set on white onyx bases. The bases are covered in the original green felt for protecting furniture surfaces. These bookends are timeless pieces, really. But it is interesting to recall that the sculptor who inspired them, August Rodin (1840-1917), was considered to be a Modern artist, very much ahead of his time as his ideas and articulation of figural sculpture departed from the steadfast rules of Classical art and put him on the 'outs' with the academies. By his death in 1940, he was well regarded internationally, likened to Michelangelo, and considered to be the father of modern sculpture. His reputation remains unchanged today.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 9 in (22.86 cm)Width: 5 in (12.7 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Style:
    Modern (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Brass,Onyx,Bronzed,Cast
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1920
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. This set of bookends is in excellent condition overall. The only imperfection from age is the slight chip of the onyx base on the back side of one of the bookends. Not obvious.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU6309230185322

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