We started our parade of LEOs with this same sculpted design—however, finished in a darkened bronze patina. Here we have a pair in its original golden finish. Bookend foundries would customarily offer their wares in two or more finishes. Classic, chocolate bronze was probably most common. A copper patina was popular. Brass finishes were sometimes offered. And a golden finish, like we see above, was another option. Some (but not all) bookends might be offered in a hand-painted, polychromed (multi-color) finish. One hundred years of use and exposure to the interior elements add their own patina-of-time. The crevices are probably darker than they once were. Little chips of finish—or rub marks—add their own evidence of time. For this reason, I would never recommend "over-cleaning" an antique such as this. The accumulations (or losses) that accrue with age are part of what give antiques their well-earned timelessness. And only time can give an antique just the right look. Click on the photo above to learn more about this handsome pair of bookends.
More handsome LEOs tomorrow and in the days to come.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.