Colorful Horse Jockey Antique Cold Painted Bronze Sculpture Statue Bookends Equestrian

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Step into the refined world of early 20th-century sporting decor with this charming pair of antique cold painted bronze bookends, … Read more Step into the refined world of early 20th-century sporting decor with this charming pair of antique cold painted bronze bookends, dating to approximately 1915 and likely Austrian in origin. Beautifully modeled as jockeys mounted atop racehorses, these miniature sculptures capture the elegance and excitement of the racetrack in wonderfully compact form. The figures display exceptional hand-finished detail, from the expressive posture of the horses to the vibrant racing silks and caps worn by the riders.

Executed in the classic Vienna cold-painted tradition, the surfaces retain rich original coloration with warm chestnut brown horses, contrasting saddle details, and striking touches of red, blue, green, and gilt throughout. The sculptural modeling is full of movement and character despite their petite scale, giving these small bronzes tremendous visual presence. Their oval plinth bases provide stability while maintaining an elegant, streamlined silhouette ideal for display on a bookshelf, writing desk, or gentleman’s study.

Each measures approximately 4.5 inches high, 4.75 inches deep, and 2.5 inches wide. Each weighs approximately 1 pound 3 ounces, for a combined weight of roughly 2.5 pounds. Good antique condition with signs of light wear and handling. There are small areas of paint loss throughout. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.

These bookends are smaller in scale and best suited for supporting lighter or smaller books, making them perfect for decorative use with antique sporting volumes, equestrian literature, or as standalone sculptural accents. Their compact proportions also make them ideal for desktop or mantel display where larger bookends would overwhelm a space.

A wonderful example of early sporting art and Viennese bronze craftsmanship, offering both decorative charm and collectible appeal. See less