Mid-Century Modern Carved Sycamore Anthropomorphic Elephant Bookends, 1950s, Set of 2

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Hand-carved from solid sycamore, each bookend in this pair depicts a stylised elephant seated upright beside a thick upright book … Read more Hand-carved from solid sycamore, each bookend in this pair depicts a stylised elephant seated upright beside a thick upright book form. The figures are modelled with trunks raised high, defined ears, and forelegs resting quietly on their knees, imparting an engaging anthropomorphic posture alongside crisp, planar carving. Both bookends are worked from a substantial single section of hardwood, giving them solid weight and balance on a shelf. The flat book backs are carved with recessed borders to represent the covers and page edges of a closed tome, providing a broad, flat vertical face designed to keep a row of books firmly upright without tipping. Subtle tool marks and faceted gouge work remain visible over the legs, trunks, and integral benches, lending textural depth to the sculptural forms. The sycamore has mellowed into a warm, pale honey tone, exhibiting the dense, fine-grained texture and smooth surface patination characteristic of the timber. Dating from the mid-20th century, the carvings show the stylistic influence of the English Arts and Crafts movement and the Yorkshire school of carving championed by workshops such as Robert 'Mouseman' Thompson, although these examples are unsigned and unbranded. The whimsical animal subject combined with honest, direct woodworking makes them well suited to both period and modern settings. Each bookend measures approximately 21 cm in height, 14 cm in width, and 10 cm in depth. Both examples stand securely, showing only minimal surface wear, light age-related rubbing to the edges, and minor natural grain variations consistent with age and authentic craft production. See less