Native American theme bronze or copper letter opener

Discussion in 'Metalware' started by nifflertreasures, Feb 2, 2020.

  1. nifflertreasures

    nifflertreasures Member

    I found this letter opener last fall at a yard sale and bought it for $8. It appears to be bronze or copper, cast, with a Native American inspired theme. I am not sure how old but online research failed to turn up anything comparable. It has a dark brown patina that turns greenish in the low spots. Just wondering if anyone can give me any kind of idea how old and possibly a ballpark value. Seems kind of Art Nouveau to me, but I'm not sure. Any information very welcome, thanks. I'm in Boise, Idaho USA if it makes any difference. Resized_20200202_141158.jpg Resized_20200202_141158.jpg Resized_20200202_141105.jpg Resized_20200202_141004.jpg Resized_20200202_141016.jpg
     
    nifflertreasures, Feb 2, 2020
    #1
    dude likes this.
  2. stracci

    stracci Well-Known Member

    I think you are correct about Art Nouveau. I would say 1890s-1910ish.
    Very cool! And a good buy, too.
     
    stracci, Feb 2, 2020
    #2
    kyratango and nifflertreasures like this.
  3. Aquitaine

    Aquitaine Is What It IS! But NEVER BORED!

    Also looks like a 'bear paw' on the back.....at least...to me.....a signature??? Regardless, it's VERY nice!!!:):)
     
    Aquitaine, Feb 2, 2020
    #3
    nifflertreasures likes this.
  4. Hollyblue

    Hollyblue Well-Known Member

    Looks like someone tried to copy an original and failed.
     
    Hollyblue, Feb 2, 2020
    #4
  5. nifflertreasures

    nifflertreasures Member

    There is no signature that I can find.
     
    nifflertreasures, Feb 3, 2020
    #5
  6. i need help

    i need help Moderator Moderator

    Is there some faint writing on the medallions?
     
    i need help, Feb 3, 2020
    #6
  7. nifflertreasures

    nifflertreasures Member

    No writing that I can find, even under 20x inspection microscope. Thanks everyone for taking the time to look.
     
    nifflertreasures, Feb 3, 2020
    #7
    i need help and komokwa like this.
  8. Fid

    Fid Well-Known Member

    lovely. it doesn't touch me as art nouveau though. could it be from the
    Centennial in 1876 or the Centennial Exposition in Philly ?
     
    Fid, Feb 5, 2020
    #8
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