Every once in a while a pair of cast bronze bookends inspired by August Rodin’s “The Thinker’ pops up on the market. When that happens, and you are able to find a pair, each differs in quality of craftsmanship, design detail, weight and size.

This pair dates to the 1920s. In fabulous condition — stunning and rare to find for its uncommonly large sizes (each standing 9″ tall), design detail (each figure is positioned just a bit differently), and incredibly rich, lustrous ‘old brass’ patina. The pair is heavily weighted cast bronze set on White Onyx bases. An heirloom set for sure!

The bases are covered in the original green felt for protecting furniture surfaces.

Pair of bookends with equestrian motif, design by Karl Hagenauer, manufactured by Werkstatte Hagenauer Vienna, ca. 1925, brass polished, marked In addition to the variety of objects produced by Werkstatte Hagenauer, one can also find plenty of everyday objects that have been artistically refined with the unique style of mentioned traditional Viennese workshop. Thus, already in the sales catalogue from 1928, a whole chapter is dedicated to bookends. A total of 22 subjects are shown there, some of them featuring animal motifs. Here, a popular equestrian motif adorns the two bookends. The small scenery shows a rider on horseback, probably hunting, accompanied by his dog. The dense bushes of the forest are merely suggested by stylized vines. This imaginative object is yet another testament to the fine craftsmanship from the Werkstatte Hagenauer Vienna. This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution