Heavy Brass Bookends Appraisal

Vintage Solid Brass Mallard Duck Head Bookends (Pair)

This is a matching pair of vintage decorative bookends featuring highly stylized mallard duck head busts. Cast from solid brass, the pieces exhibit a classic yellowish-gold metallic luster characteristic of mid-century hardware. Each bookend measures approximately 6 to 7 inches in height and features a weighted, hemispherical base that transitions up into the elongated neck and head of a duck. The design is minimalist yet recognizable, with incised detailing defining the eyes and the separation of the bill. The craftsmanship suggests a sand-casting process, evidenced by the smooth but slightly undulating surface texture. Condition-wise, the items show a moderate amount of aged patina, including some darker oxidation spots in the crevices of the neck and around the bill area. There are visible surface scratches and 'flea bite' pitted marks consistent with age and use. One duck head is oriented in a profile view while the other faces forward, though they are designed to be used as a mirrored supporting pair. These are typical of home decor produced between the 1970s and 1980s, popular in library and office settings for their classic sporting aesthetic. No specific maker's marks are visible in the photograph, but they are indicative of mass-produced brass wares from companies like PM Craftsman or various imports from Korea or Taiwan typical of that era.