When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Rare Antique 1932 Kronheimer & Oldenbusch Co. (K. & O. Co.) "George Washington Crossing the Delaware" Sculptural Bronze-Finished Bookends — Signed by Sculptor John Ruhl (J. Ruhl) — **One with Professional Repair**
These are an exceptional pair of antique 1932 figural bookends depicting General George Washington standing heroically at the bow of his boat while crossing the icy Delaware River.
** Books pictured are not included and are for display purposes only**
Created in 1932 to commemorate the George Washington Bicentennial (1732–1932), these bookends were sculpted by renowned New York sculptor John Ruhl (1873–1940) and cast by the prestigious New York art-metal foundry Kronheimer & Oldenbusch Co. (K. & O. Co.).
Crisp Foundry & Sculptor Signatures (Both Bookends):
- Upper Base / Cloak Hem: Stamped "© 1932 K.&O. CO. J. RUHL"
- Lower Textured Base: Stamped "K & O CO / MADE IN U.S.A."
Sculptural Details & Heavy Construction:
- Dynamic Historical Modeling: Depicts General Washington in his tricorn hat, billowing military cloak, officer's coat, sword, and riding boots, bracing one foot upon the gunwale of the boat as it cuts through the choppy waters and ice floes of the Delaware River.
- Heavy 4+ Lb Weight: Together, the pair weighs a substantial 4 lbs 10.4 oz (nearly 2.5 lbs each), easily supporting heavy hardcover and leather-bound books.
- Original Statuary Bronze Finish: Cast in high-detail spelter/art metal with its original electroplated antique statuary bronze finish, featuring warm golden-bronze highlights and dark brown patina in the recessed textures.
- Protective Green Felt Bases: Both bookends have clean green felt bottoms to protect fine wood bookshelves and executive desks.
**Condition: ONE BOOKEND HAS A PROFESSIONAL REPAIR TO THE NECK AREA.**
**One of the two bookends in this pair has been previously broken and professionally repaired at the neck of the George Washington figure. This repair is stable and only visible upon close inspection, as detailed in the last two provided close-up photographs. The filler material and touched-up paint do not perfectly match the original patina in that specific area. The other bookend is in outstanding antique condition with no breaks, cracks, or repairs. Both bookends are structurally sound. The original 1932 two-tone bronze patina is remarkably well preserved. Please zoom in and examine ALL photos closely, especially the detailed photos of the repaired area, as they show the exact pair of bookends you will receive.**
Approximate Measurements:
- Height: 6-1/2 inches tall
- Base Depth / Length: 4-1/2 inches
- Combined Weight of Pair: 4 lbs 10.4 oz Shipping & Heavy-Duty Packaging:
Because heavy antique metal bookends require extra care in transit, each bookend will be individually wrapped in multiple thick layers of bubble wrap so they cannot touch or shift, and shipped tightly padded inside a sturdy box via USPS with tracking and insurance included.
Please feel free to message me if you have any questions. Thanks so much for looking!antique 1932 K&O Co bookends, Kronheimer and Oldenbusch bookends, John Ruhl J Ruhl signed sculpture, George Washington Crossing the Delaware bookends, 1932 George Washington Bicentennial antique, antique bronze clad spelter bookends, Revolutionary War President Washington decor, America 250th anniversary 1776 2026 gift, lawyer judge executive office bookends, Jennings Brothers style New York foundry.