Overview
A pair of substantial, cast-metal bookends featuring a stylized, textured cat sitting atop a thick, ribbed book base.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A pair of substantial, cast-metal bookends featuring a stylized, textured cat sitting atop a thick, ribbed book base.
Story
The mid-20th century saw a surge in 'executive' desk accessories that brought a sense of library-bound gravitas to the modern home office. These cats were part of a movement in American giftware that favored 'cold-cast' or sand-cast metals with deep, dark…
Maker / Origin
Levencor was a specialized manufacturer of decorative metalware that thrived during the post-war era by creating high-quality, heavy-duty home accents.
Condition & Value
The patina appears well-preserved with only minor rubbing on the high points like the ears and nose, which is consistent with age and handling. The 'heavy' description on the tag suggests no internal damage or loss of the weighted core. Condition is excellent for their age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375