Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A striking pair of early 20th-century metal bookends featuring an elegant Chinoiserie design of figures in a stylized garden. The reverse shows the distinctive 'JB' maker's mark, the mold number 425, and a 'Pat. Appld. For' stamp, indicating an early production run before the design patent was finalized.
Story
During the 1920s, Bridgeport, Connecticut was a powerhouse of metal craftsmanship. Jennings Brothers captured the era's obsession with exotic Eastern motifs, turning heavy, functional bookends into miniature canvases of gilded fantasy.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1890 by three brothers, Jennings Brothers (JB) became legendary for creating some of the finest art metalwork of the Gilded Age and Art Deco eras. Unlike competitors who used cheap slush metal, JB employed highly skilled artists and sculptors to carve original wax models, ensuring their cast metal pieces retained incredibly sharp, fine details.
Condition & Value
The underside shows significant wear to the gold-plated finish, with oxidation, spotting, and some loss of the original felt padding. However, the cast details remain sharp and the maker's marks are fully legible. Original, untouched surfaces are preferred by collectors over polished or restored examples.
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.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.