Bookends - Wood - extendable book stand

Antique extendable book stand / book holder – Mercury, Grotesques & Fables – Noble marquetry (Intarsia) – Italy/France, ca. 1880–1900

Decorative, extendable table book stand from the Historicism era (late 19th century). The piece captivates with its elaborate ornamental design: the back panel features the painted depiction of the god Mercury / Hermes in a meander frame, while the fold-out side panels are adorned with fine fables and birds in the Renaissance grotesque style.

The width is flexibly adjustable to the number of books; for space-saving storage, the side panels are collapsible. A rare bibliophilic collectible for the classical library.

Objekt details
Manufacturer / Origin: Unknown master; France or Italy (stylistically related to Sorrento works).
Publication year / Period: Historicism / Belle Époque (ca. 1880–1900).
Style: Neo-Renaissance / Grotesque.
Technique: High-quality marquetry on burl veneer, combined with fine hand painting and micro-segmented decorative ridges.
Material: Burl veneer (walnut/Thuja grain), ebonized edges, softwood core.
Dimensions: Length variable from 39.0 cm to 65.2 cm | Width (Depth): 13.8 cm | Height: 17.9 cm

Condition
Good, authentic original condition with beautiful patina.
Extending and folding mechanism works flawlessly.
Wood substance is stable; a natural drying crack is present on the left back panel (no impact on stability).
The veneer is secure; age-related craquelure in the historic varnish, slight wear on the edges, and localized age spots in the wood underline authenticity.
No missing pieces in the marquetry; paint colors are well preserved.
Bottom side with original, age-appropriate worn veneer.

Shipping: Will be securely and shock-proof packaged; insured shipping with tracking.