Antique McClelland Barclay Art Deco Bronze Mushroom Frog Bookend Sculptures 4.5"

Description

This rare, antique pair of McClelland Barclay "Mushroom and Frog" solid bronze bookends from the 1920s–1930s is a magnificent addition to any Art Deco collection or vintage home library. Masterfully cast in heavy solid bronze, each piece showcases an organic, whimsical woodland landscape featuring a towering, wide-capped mushroom that gracefully arches forward over the base. Tucked beneath the main canopy is a beautifully sculpted, alert little frog perched on the rocky moss terrain alongside a smaller secondary cap and an emerging tiny sprout. Engineered for practical library use, the flat, perpendicular rear walls sit perfectly flush against the spines of your books.

The reverse side provides absolute proof of authenticity, showcasing a distinct, uniform stippled pattern stamped with the original incised McClelland Barclay "© M.B." artist signature/monogram on the lower right corner of both pieces. This pair is distinguished by an incredibly rich, well-preserved verdigris green patina that blankets the smooth curves of the fungal caps and settles naturally into the craggy textures of the base, creating a striking contrast against the warm, underlying bronze highlights. Originally designed by the famed American illustrator and sculptor McClelland Barclay, these heavy, substantial solid bronze weights flawlessly fuse naturalism with functional Art Deco design, providing excellent structural support for large volumes while doubling as captivating standalone works of early 20th-century American decorative art.

Condition

Gentle wear

Dimensions

3.5" x 3.75" x 4.5" (W x D x H)