No. 102274761

Bookends (2) - Wood - Vintage Italian
No. 102274761

Bookends (2) - Wood - Vintage Italian
A delightful matched pair of vintage spinning globe bookends, crafted in Italy during the mid-20th century (likely 1960s–1970s).
These decorative pieces feature miniature terrestrial globes with a charming “Old World” antique map reproduction, evoking 16th–17th century cartography through stylized sepia tones, colorful accents (green seas, red/brown landmasses), and whimsical exploratory details including ships, sea monsters, wind roses, and Magellan’s route (“Magellani…” inscriptions visible near the South American coast).
The globes (diameter approximately 9 cm) rotate smoothly on small brass/metal axles, allowing them to spin freely for an interactive touch. They display Italian zonal climate bands such as “ZONA TEMP MED” (Zona Temperata Meridionale), “ZONA TEMP SETTEN” (Zona Temperata Settentrionale), and related labels, adding authentic regional flair. Ornate decorative cartouches feature pseudo-historical Italian/Latin-inspired text, including phrases like “Gloria Coronando Inebrando Secondo di Stadi Gliosi” and a stylistic “Anni-1914” (likely artistic homage rather than production date).
Each bookend rests on a sturdy angled L-shaped base of warm-toned solid wood (possibly walnut or similar hardwood), providing excellent stability for holding books upright on shelves, desks, or library displays. The lightweight construction (140 g per bookend) combines a printed paper overlay on a thin core globe with solid wood bases.
Perfect for collectors of vintage globes, Italian decor, or Old World map reproductions. Shipping carefully packed to protect the spinning mechanism and wood.
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