Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming pair of vintage bookends featuring cast brass trotting horses with sulky carts and drivers, mounted on solid pine bases. Produced by the renowned Cornwall Wood Products company of Maine, these pieces beautifully capture the mid-century American fascination with harness racing and traditional New England craftsmanship.
Story
Harness racing was once America's premier spectator sport, drawing massive crowds to agricultural fairs across New England. These bookends brought that high-speed excitement right into the quiet sanctuary of the mid-century home library.
Maker / Origin
Cornwall Wood Products operated out of South Paris, Maine, a region historically celebrated for its abundant timber and skilled woodworkers. Active during the mid-to-late 20th century, the company specialized in high-quality decorative gifts, barware, and home accessories that combined warm, stained New England pine with brass or copper accents.
Condition & Value
The wooden bases show minor scuffs, edge wear, and light scratches consistent with age and use. The brass figures have developed a pleasing, soft golden patina with minor oxidation in the crevices; they could be polished or left as-is to preserve their vintage character. Overall in very good, functional condition.
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.