Pair of bookends, elephant motif, black ebony, ivory, Sri Lanka, 1960s.
2 240 PLN
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ABOUT PRODUCTID 4433
This pair of bookends from Sri Lanka, dating to the 1950s-60s, is crafted from deep, almost black ebony and bone. The hand-carved elephant figures feature softly rounded forms and well-proportioned bodies, demonstrating the skill of South Asian craftsmanship. Accents in bone—such as the tusks, eyes, toes, and geometric dot inlays on vertical and horizontal surfaces—are precisely set into the wood, almost seamlessly. The surfaces have a satin-matte finish, and the junctions between wood and bone are clean and discreet. The bookends are substantial and stable; their restrained, minimalist shape and refined detailing blend traditional regional motifs with mid-century modern tendencies. The condition is excellent, with no visible damage or wear—surfaces and inlays remain intact and well-preserved. These bookends evoke the spirit of mid-20th-century South Asian workshops. The ebony’s darkness tells of Ceylon’s tropical climate, while the elephants—symbols of fortune and strength—suggest a slow, deliberate rhythm of daily life. The subtle bone inlays recall distant travels and a fascination with the Orient, and the simplicity of form draws attention to the quality of materials and handcrafted detail. These bookends could be paired with an exotic wood bookshelf or a minimalist floating shelf, becoming a striking accent. They would suit eclectic, Middle Eastern-inspired, or vintage interiors, harmonizing with dark textiles, matte ceramics, or the soft glow of a paper-shaded lamp. It is worth combining them with other natural materials to emphasize their authenticity and timeless character. Each bookend measures 13.5 cm in height, 15.5 cm in length, and 7.
DIMENSION
Height13 cm
Depth15 cm
Width7 cm
Dimension details
Width7 cm
Height13 cm
Depth15 cm
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