The thinker bookends, possibly bronze

Hi all,

I've seen a lot of different examples of these online, so I'm a little stumped as to what I actually have. Mine weigh about 2.25 lbs each and are only magnetic at the base area. Size can be gauged by the keys in the pic for scale, but I can measure them if necessary.

Thanks for any help.

 

although most think at Rodin's thinker, there were similar figures known from anciet Rome; wrestlers and athletes preparing for competitions.

 

Is the year 1928 marked in the metal? Robert Seecof's Bookend Review show this pair with that date, that was reproduced in 1993, 6.75" in gray metal. Your pair appears to be original. If someone tried to distress them, they did a good job.

 

I didn't see any marks or dates but will check again and post if I find any. Thx!

 

I checked again very carefully and didn't find any dates. There may be a date impressed on the bottom under the glued on Velcro, felt or whatever it is, but I don't know how to get it off without scrubbing with something that will also scratch up the metal.

You mentioned Seecof's B.E. Review. If you happen to have it, can you please tell me if he states a value and what metal he says they are made of. I think mine is cast metal bronze, not brass or copper.

 

Love their little tuches.

Debora

 

Sorry so long to get back. Seecof states: "They (the reproductions) have shiny, antiqued, flawless surfaces and seem to be made from very thin metal, none of which is typical of 1928 bookends." He values the repo's at $20-30. He doesn't state where the original is stamped, Your felt is glued on. If you desire, you can take a razor blade and slowly lift the felt, but markings are usually visible on the outer side.

 

Given the thickness, weight, and flaws on mine, I'd say they are original. You mentioned what
Seecof says about the repo's. Does he assign a value to the originals? Thanks!