£150.00
A charming and highly decorative pair of Art Nouveau bookends dating to the early twentieth century, beautifully combining flowing organic design with devotional imagery in a wonderfully evocative composition.
Each bookend features an elegant gilded frame cast in the distinctive Art Nouveau style, decorated with stylised foliate scrolls picked out in delicate shades of cobalt blue and deep burgundy enamel. At the centre of each sits a finely printed and hand-coloured religious scene.
A charming and highly decorative pair of Art Nouveau bookends dating to the early twentieth century, beautifully combining flowing organic design with devotional imagery in a wonderfully evocative composition.
Each bookend features an elegant gilded frame cast in the distinctive Art Nouveau style, decorated with stylised foliate scrolls picked out in delicate shades of cobalt blue and deep burgundy enamel. At the centre of each sits a finely printed and hand-coloured religious scene.
One depicts a contemplative monk standing before an open window overlooking a mountainous landscape, while the companion portrays a nun peacefully playing the violin within a cloister courtyard. Together they create a harmonious pair celebrating both quiet reflection and sacred music.
The beautifully flowing frames embody the naturalistic movement that defined Art Nouveau, where botanical forms and organic curves replaced the rigid symmetry of earlier Victorian design. Their warm gilt finish has mellowed gracefully over more than a century, producing a rich patina that complements the subtle colours of the artwork.
Both decorative and practical, these bookends retain their original weighted bases and remain perfectly functional whilst making a striking display on a library shelf, desk or cabinet.
Pieces of this quality are becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly as complete matching pairs.
Presented in very good antique condition.
The gilded finish displays expected age-related wear together with minor rubbing and small losses consistent with over one hundred years of use. The coloured decoration survives well with only minimal wear. Both glazed prints remain clean
The original metal bases remain secure and functional.
Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
Height: 14 cm / 5.5 inches
Width: 12 cm /. 4.7 inches
Depth: 11 cm / 4.3 inches
Weight: 0.2 kg / 0.3 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
