Pair 19th Century French Hand-Painted Cast Iron Figural Bookends

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Description

Charming and full of character, this pair of antique cast iron bookends features two seated figures dressed in traditional regional … Read more Charming and full of character, this pair of antique cast iron bookends features two seated figures dressed in traditional regional costume. Crafted in France circa 1890, each substantial book stand is hand painted and modeled with a figure seated on a simple bench, creating a wonderfully decorative folk-art appearance.

One depicts a woman wearing a bonnet, red bodice, dark skirt, and patterned apron, while the companion figure portrays a man wearing a broad-brimmed black hat, red shirt, dark vest, and trousers. Their costumes and rustic character are reminiscent of traditional Breton dress from Brittany. Each figure is mounted on a heavy semicircular iron base, providing the weight and stability necessary to support books on a shelf, desk, or library table.

The original painted surfaces display appealing age-related wear, including scattered paint loss, rubbing, oxidation, and surface variations that enhance their authentic antique character. Both pieces are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use.

A distinctive decorative accessory for a library, office, or bookshelf, these late 19th-century figural bookends combine practical function with charming French folk character.

Dimensions: Each measures 4” W x 2.75” D x 4.75” H See less