Bookends - Wood - extendable book stand

Antique extendable lectern / book holder – Merkur, Grotesques & Fables – Noble marquetry (inlay) – Italy/France, c. 1880–1900

Decorative, extendable table-bookstand from the Historicism era (late 19th century). The piece impresses with its elaborate ornamental design: The back panel features a painted depiction of the god Mercury/Hermes in a meander framing, while the fold-out side panels are adorned with fine fables and birds in Renaissance grotesque style.
The width can be flexibly adjusted to the number of books; for space-saving storage the side panels are foldable. A rare bibliophilic collectible for the classical library.
Objekt details
Manufacturer / Origin: Unknown master; France or Italy (stylistically related to Sorrento works).
Appearance year / Period: Historicism / Belle Époque (c. 1880–1900).
Style: Neo-Renaissance / Grotesque.
Technique: High-quality inlay work (marquetry) on burl veneer, combined with fine hand painting and micro-segmented decorative borders.
Material: Burl veneer (walnut/Thuja grain), ebonized edges, softwood core.
Dimensions: Length variable from 39.0 cm to 65.2 cm | Depth (width): 13.8 cm | Height: 17.9 cm
Condition
Good, authentic original condition with a beautiful patina of age.
The extendable and folding mechanism functions perfectly.
Wood substance is stable; a natural drying crack is present on the left back panel (no impact on stability).
The veneer is secure; age-typical craquelure in the historic finish, light wear to the edges and occasional age spots in the wood emphasize authenticity.
No missing pieces in the marquetry, colors of the painting well preserved.
Bottom with original, age-appropriate worn veneer.
Shipping: Will be packed securely for transport and shockproof; insured shipment with tracking.