The Peacock Portal Bookends were made in two styles, this example has an empty portal, while the other has a saint centered in the opening. In each bookend, a pair of peacocks frame the arched portal. Peacock motifs were favored at Tiffany Studios, with table lamps, Favrile glass and fancy goods incorporating the colorful birds and feather patterns into the various designs. Peacock Portal Bookends could have been intended for ecclesiastical clients, as historically peacocks have symbolised immortality, the cosmos, Paradise, and the Tree of Life. These bookends are bronze and finished in gold dore. Underside stamped: TIFFANY STUDIOS/NEW YORK/1614. Height: 6".
Price: Inquire at info@teamantiques.com, or call (914) 686-8147.
References:
Duncan, Alastair. Tiffany Glass and Metalware: An Illustrated Reference to Over 2000 Models. Antique Collectors' Club, Suffolk. 2007. p.446, pl.1780 (similar item in patina).
Holland, William. Tiffany Desk Sets. Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., PA. 2008. p.231 (similar item in patina).
Kemeny, George & Miller, Donald. Tiffany Desk Treasures: A Collectors Guide. Hudson Hills Press, NY 2001. pps.32-33, pl.8.