Vintage George Washington Bust Bookends
Presented is a set of vintage cast iron George Washington bust bookends. The head to shoulder likenesses celebrate the impressive legacy of our first President.
The bookend set is modeled after the famous 1785 Jean-Antoine Houdon clay bust of Washington. Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin commissioned the French artist to create a statue of George Washington, as ordered by the Governor of Virginia. Houdon visited Mount Vernon on October 2, 1785. During his weeks-long stay, he carefully observed Washington's movements and expressions, even making a plaster "life mask" of Washington’s face to accurately preserve every detail. Washington was then 53 years old. Before departing for France on October 17, Houdon presented a finished clay bust to Washington as a gift. George Washington kept the clay bust in his study, and many considered it his most accurate likeness.
The bookend busts sit on a black square base. Although unmarked, these bookends were made in the mid to late 20th century.
CONDITION:
Very good condition, overall an attractive and heavy set. Cast iron. Wear as expected with past age and use, including minor scuffs and chips to finish, small loss to finish on the nose of one bookend. Each bookend with black square base, hollowed interior.
Dimensions: 6" H x 3 3/4" W x 2 3/4" W.
Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.
Pickup available at Colorado
Usually ready in 4 hours
Vintage George Washington Bust Bookends
Colorado
1 Lake Avenue
Colorado Springs CO 80906
United States
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Yes, all of our Antiques are certified authentic. Every antique comes with a signed Letter of Authenticity that details the item’s history, its current condition including any conservation, binding, or framing work, and the item’s provenance. The Letters of Authenticity are priced valuations by our authentication specialists, who assure that items are original and unconditionally guaranteed as genuine for life.
We pack and ship your items from our gallery in Colorado Springs. You may also choose to come pick up your order. Antique items are carefully packed and insured during shipping. The shipping price will be calculated at checkout.
We acquire from a variety of trusted sources all over the world, but mostly through auctions and private collections within the United States. All provenance information will be listed on the Letter of
Authenticity accompanying your purchase.