Lot # 18 - Vintage Wrought Iron Walking Man and Shadow Bookends

Opening Bid : $ 5.00
Pickup Instructions: PICK UPS MARCH 6TH-7TH 10-2:00 PM - USE SHIPPING IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT - PLENTY OF STREET PARKING -BRING HELP FOR HEAVY ITEMS - BRING YOUR OWN PACKAGING FOR HAULING DELICATE AND MULTIPLE LOT ITEMS
Start Date/Time: 25-Feb-2026 7:00:00 AM
End Date/Time: 05-Mar-2026 7:17:00 PM
Current bid:

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Highest bidder:

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Description :

Vintage Wrought Iron Walking Man and Shadow Bookends

This lot features a sculptural pair of vintage wrought iron bookends depicting elongated walking figures with integrated “shadow” bases. Crafted from hand-forged iron, each figure is rendered in a minimalist, linear style with expressive posture and abstracted human form. The figures stand upright at opposing ends, while their flattened bases extend forward to function as book supports, visually reading as shadows cast along the surface.

The design emphasizes silhouette and negative space, blending modernist abstraction with folk art sensibility. Subtle variations in line thickness, bends, and surface texture reflect hand-forged construction rather than mass production. When placed together, the figures create a balanced visual narrative, making them equally effective as functional bookends or standalone sculptural objects.

Well-suited for modern, brutalist, or eclectic interiors, these bookends offer both utility and strong sculptural presence.

Dimensions:
Each bookend approx. 12" H x 8" W x 3.5" D

Condition:
Good vintage condition with surface wear, oxidation, and patina consistent with age and use. No cracks, breaks, or repairs observed. Patina and irregularities are inherent to hand-forged iron. Please review photos for full condition details.

Historical Notes:
• Wrought iron figurative bookends became popular in the mid-to-late 20th century as sculptural decor objects bridging art and function.
• The elongated “walking man” form reflects modernist influences, particularly abstraction and reduction of the human figure to gesture and line.
• Hand-forged iron pieces like these were often produced in small studios rather than factories, contributing to their individuality.
• The shadow-base motif adds conceptual interest, emphasizing movement, balance, and negative space.

Estimated Value:
$400–$600 for the pair


Auction History

Nobody has placed bid on this auction yet.

PAYMENT DETAILS

Placing a bid constitutes a binding agreement to purchase. If you are the winning bidder, you are required to complete payment and pick up your item(s). Failure to complete a purchase will result in permanent revocation of bidding privileges. Please do not bid unless you intend to follow through with purchase and pickup.

By bidding, you confirm that you are available to retrieve your items during the designated pickup window unless prior shipping arrangements have been approved in advance. Buyers are responsible for bringing any necessary tools, equipment, and assistance required for removal of items. Loading assistance is not available. Some items may be located on upper floors, in outbuildings, or areas requiring stairs.

Invoices will be emailed to winning bidders after the auction has fully closed. Full payment is due by 8:00 PM the day following the auction close. If payment is not received prior to the scheduled pickup date and time, items will be forfeited and bidding privileges revoked.

Pickup details will be included on the invoice emailed after the auction closes. Any items not picked up during the scheduled pickup times will be considered abandoned and may be resold or donated. In limited circumstances, and solely at our discretion, an alternate pickup time may be approved for an additional fee.

A 10% Buyer’s Premium and applicable sales tax will be added to the final hammer price at invoicing. Sales tax will be waived for licensed resellers with valid documentation on file.

Agora Estate Company makes every effort to accurately describe all items. Please expect normal wear consistent with age, use, and history for antique, vintage, and pre-owned pieces. We do not note every minor imperfection. All items are sold AS IS, WHERE IS, with no refunds or returns. Agora Estate Company does not guarantee the working condition of any clock, watch, electronic, or mechanical item. Measurements provided are approximate.


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