Alabaster Desk Accessory Appraisal

Art Deco Brass and Alabaster Perpetual Calendar Desk Accessory

This item is a vintage perpetual calendar desk accessory, likely dating from the Art Deco period of the 1920s to 1940s. It features a rectangular base crafted from polished alabaster, characterized by its translucent white body and striking natural orange-brown veining. Mounted upon this stone base is a brass or bronze-finished metal frame. The central front panel is decorated with a fine diamond-pattern engine-turned or guilloché texture, flanked by vertical ribbing on the sides. A square aperture in the center reveals a cream-colored internal card printed with a numerical grid representing a month from 1 to 31. This insert is part of a manual mechanism meant to be adjusted to align dates with the day of the week. Above the main body is a fixed, rounded rectangular handle which functions as a rack for letters or stationery. Looking at its condition, there is a visible aged patina and some surface oxidation on the metal components, particularly on the handle. The alabaster base exhibits minor nibbles and flea bites along the edges, quintessential for stone pieces of this age. The overall craftsmanship suggests a high-quality functional office piece from the mid-20th century, combining industrial metalwork with classical decorative stone materials.