Paper knife - Bronze, Bronze

Large Art Nouveau bronze blotter/letter opener with a peacock feather decoration, circa 1900-1910

Description

Very beautiful and rare large Art Nouveau bronze blotter / letter opener, made in patinated bronze, dating likely from the early 20th century, around 1900-1910.

The object presents a particularly original design: the long blade takes the shape and the veins of a large **peacock feather**, while its tip is adorned with an elegant peacock head. The plumage is finely worked and enhanced by numerous circular motifs evoking the eye-spots characteristic of this bird's feathers.

The naturalistic decor, the soft, undulating lines, and the highly sculptural treatment of the feather are especially representative of the decorative vocabulary of the **Art Nouveau / Belle Époque**.

This type of blotter “feather of peacock” is documented in French decorative arts of the early 20th century, notably in the catalog of the Salon of 1906 where a “peacock feather blotter” is listed.

Characteristics:

* Era: around 1900-1910
* Style: **Art Nouveau / Belle Époque**
* Assumed country: France
* Material: patinated bronze
* Length: about 33 cm
* Maximum width: about 7 cm
* Thickness: about 2 cm
* Weight: about 450 g
* Signature: unsigned

The piece shows a beautiful antique patina and a particularly detailed relief. **Good overall condition for its age**, with patina traces and nuances corresponding to its age. No breaks or restorations to report.

A desk object that is both decorative and functional, particularly interesting for lovers of **Art Nouveau bronzes, antique desk accessories, and peacock-inspired creations**, an emblematic motif of the period.

Note: the object is presented as a French Art Nouveau work from the 1900-1910 period. In the absence of a signature, no attribution to a specific artist or bronzier is claimed.

Careful shipping with tracking and insurance.