Duck Head Bookends Appraisal

Vintage Solid Brass Mallard Duck Head Bookends

This is a pair of vintage decorative bookends crafted in the shape of mallard duck heads. The items are made of solid cast brass, exhibiting a heavy, substantial construction designed to hold books in place. Each piece features a mid-century traditional aesthetic with detailed anatomical molding around the eyes, beak, and feathers at the base of the neck. The finish displays a rich, aged golden-brown patina with visible oxidation and minor surface scuffing consistent with age and previous use. A notable feature is the flat-backed design that allows the ducks to sit flush against the spine of books. The craftsmanship indicates a mid-20th-century production, likely from the 1960s or 1970s. There are no immediate visible maker's marks or signatures on the central exterior, though such stamps are often found on the base or interior of the casting. The condition is generally good, with no structural cracks or major dents, though the metal would benefit from a light cleaning to restore its original luster if desired. The set serves as a prime example of masculine library decor or the Hollywood Regency style popular in the mid-century era.