Pair Of Children's Bookends - Patinated Bronze On Marble - Late 19th Century, Early 20th Century.

A charming pair of bronzes with a brown patina, dating from the late 19th or early 20th century, depicting two young children seated in their high chairs, each portrayed in a different pose.

The first child, particularly expressive, raises his arm energetically while his other hand is open in a lively gesture. The second, by contrast, seems to have dozed off in his chair, his head slightly tilted and one arm resting limply at his side. This contrast between the two subjects lends the pair a great deal of charm and vitality.

The sculptor paid close attention to numerous small details: facial expressions, clothing, booties, bonnets, the construction of the chairs, and accessories. The deliberately endearing nature of the two scenes is typical of these small genre bronzes, which were particularly popular in the late 19th century.

The sculptures feature a beautiful antique brown patina, slightly lightened on the reliefs in places. Each rests on a rectangular bronze pedestal, which in turn is mounted on a marble base veined with shades of pink and cream.

Given their composition and presentation as a pair, these two bronzes are perfectly suited for use as bookends, while also making a lovely pair of decorative sculptures to display on a bookshelf, desk, or dresser.

A playful and decorative pair, notable for the quality and finesse of its details, but above all for the two complementary poses of the children, which come into their own when displayed together.