Art Deco Bookends with Elephants and Rouge Royal Marble, France, 1930, Set of 2

Details

Description

A charming pair of Art Deco bookends, made in France around 1930, consisting of silver-plated elephant figures mounted on rectangular … Read more A charming pair of Art Deco bookends, made in France around 1930, consisting of silver-plated elephant figures mounted on rectangular bases of Rouge Royal marble.

Each piece depicts a seated elephant rendered with a synthetic modeling style, featuring rounded volumes and deliberately simplified anatomy. The figures' slightly humorous character reflects the taste for stylized animal sculpture that was prevalent in French decorative arts during the 1920s and 1930s.

The silver finish of the elephants creates an elegant contrast with the intense reddish tones and natural veining of the Rouge Royal marble. The combination of these two materials lends sophistication to the piece without diminishing the playful nature of the figures.

Animal motifs held a prominent place in Art Deco, appearing in both purely decorative sculptures and functional objects intended for desks, libraries, and living rooms. This pair is an attractive example of the integration of sculpture and applied design.

They are in good overall condition, with patina and slight signs of use consistent with their age. One of the bases has a small chip in one corner, visible in the photographs, but it does not affect the stability of the piece.

Measurements of each piece: 13 x 11 x 6.5 cm
Origin: France
Period: circa 1930
Materials: Silver-plated metal and Rouge Royal marble
Style: Art Deco / Animalier
Condition: Good overall condition, with patina and slight signs of use. One base has a small chip in one corner. See less