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Antique American Cast Iron Pointer Puppy Dog Bookends – Pair – Original Paint – c. 1928–1935
Offered is a wonderful and scarce pair of antique American cast iron puppy dog bookends dating to approximately 1928–1935. These beautifully sculpted seated puppies retain their original hand-painted polychrome finish with desirable age-related wear that reflects nearly a century of honest use.
The expressive modeling of the dogs—with their soulful eyes, oversized paws, and natural posture—demonstrates exceptional sculptural quality typical of better American foundry work from the period. Each hollow-cast dog is factory mounted to its original architectural bookend base featuring a decorative shell crest and scroll motif.
I extensively researched these bookends in an effort to identify the maker. The dogs and bases were carefully disassembled and examined inside and out. No maker\'s marks, model numbers, or casting marks were found. Construction details, casting quality, and original finish indicate American manufacture from the late 1920s to early 1930s.
While the sculptural style is comparable to quality examples produced by Hubley and other prominent American foundries of the era, I have not found documentation confirming a specific manufacturer. Therefore, they are being offered as an unmarked antique American pair, allowing collectors to draw their own conclusions.
Measurements (each)
- Height to top of dog\'s head: approximately 5 inches
- Height to top of backplate: approximately 4 inches
- Width: approximately 5 inches
- Depth: approximately 4 inches
- Weight: approximately 2 pounds 9 ounces each
Condition
Very good antique condition.
- Original painted finish with expected paint loss and wear from age and use.
- No cracks or repairs noted.
- Original mounting studs and hardware remain in place.
- Structurally solid and display beautifully.
- Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
These are an outstanding pair of early American cast iron bookends that would make an excellent addition to a collection of antique bookends, sporting dog memorabilia, hunting decor, or Arts & Crafts / early Art Deco home furnishings.
Because examples of this exact model are seldom encountered, this is a wonderful opportunity to acquire a scarce and exceptionally well-made pair of antique American bookends.
If you recognize the maker or have documentation regarding this model, I would genuinely enjoy hearing from you after the sale.
