Lot 190:
Sold for: £16
Description
A pair of nautical style bookends, each featuring a decorative replica of a US Navy Mark V type deep-sea diving helmet. The helmets are cast from a copper alloy, likely brass, and are mounted onto polished hardwood bases. Each base is detailed with brass-capped corners and a decorative brass mounting plate held by domed rivets. The helmets feature characteristic openwork grill viewports to the front and sides, a top ventilation port, and a side-mounted air intake pipe. The wooden components are finished with a rich stain. No manufacturer marks or signatures are visible on the metal or wooden parts of either item.
Condition report:
Both bookends show signs of wear consistent with age and use. The left-hand helmet shows significant surface oxidation and green verdigris, particularly evident across the top and side viewports (photo 2). The brass finish on both helmets exhibits a darkened patina and general dulling across the surface. The wooden bases show light surface scuffs and minor nicks to the sharp edges (photo 1). Both helmet assemblies remain securely attached to their respective wooden mounts.
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