Art Deco Bookend In Patinated Bronze - Hannibal's War Elephant, France, Circa 1920–1930

A sculptural bookend in patinated bronze depicting a Carthaginian war elephant, inspired by Hannibal's campaigns during the Second Punic War. The richly harnessed and armored animal features a defensive spike on its chest. On its back, a battle platform accommodates two warriors in antique armor and helmets, one of whom holds a signal horn. Two infantrymen protected by shields complete the scene at the base of the group. The whole is fixed on a black marble base veined with white, with rounded front corners and a vertical bookend with geometric steps, enhanced by two applied copper plaques, characteristic of the Art Deco style. The bronze has a beautiful nuanced brown patina with subtle golden highlights, emphasizing the fineness of the chasing. The condition is impeccable, both for the bronze and the marble. A high-quality French piece, typical of Art Deco decorative arts of the 1920s–1930s. A striking decorative and collectible object. Dimensions: – Total height: approx. 16 cm – Base: 16 × 9 cm – Elephant: approx. 9.5 cm long x 10 cm high.