{"product_id":"figural-bronze-letter-opener","title":"Figural Bronze Letter Opener","description":"\u003cstyle type=\"text\/css\"\u003e\u003c!--br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}--\u003e\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003eAdditional Description:\u003cbr\u003eA richly cast and beautifully patinated figural letter opener in solid bronze, modeled as an 18th-century gentleman standing in formal attire. The figure—dressed in knee breeches, fitted coat, and period hairstyle—grasps the blade in a composed, almost ceremonial stance, evoking the refinement of aristocratic Europe.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe crossguard is executed in pronounced Rococo revival style, with scrolling acanthus and foliate ornamentation, while the blade extends in a smooth, tapered form. The bronze retains a deep, naturally aged patina with warm highlights along the raised details, emphasizing the depth and quality of the casting. Subtle wear reveals lighter tones at the high points, adding visual richness and authenticity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe piece carries both sculptural presence and practical function, embodying the 19th-century fascination with historical revival and decorative desk objects.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEra:\u003cbr\u003eLate 19th to early 20th century (circa 1880–1920)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHistory:\u003cbr\u003eDuring the late 19th century, there was a strong revival of earlier European styles—particularly 18th-century French Rococo and courtly themes. Desk accessories such as letter openers were elevated into decorative art forms, often cast in bronze and modeled after historical figures.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBronze examples like this were more desirable than spelter counterparts due to their durability, weight, and ability to develop a rich patina over time. These objects were commonly found in well-appointed studies and libraries, symbolizing education, correspondence, and refined taste.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance:\u003cbr\u003eContinental Europe, likely French or French-inspired production, acquired on the secondary market.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaterials:\u003cbr\u003eSolid cast bronze with aged patina\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003eLeave blank\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDisclaimers:\u003cbr\u003eWear consistent with age, including rubbing to high points and natural patina variation. Minor surface marks and casting irregularities typical of period bronze work. No structural damage observed; blade remains intact and functional.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"For the Louvre of Antiques LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48344955289855,"sku":null,"price":165.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0725\/8780\/4927\/files\/1c6cd9d5-fdc1-4505-8624-947c4d99cc24.png?v=1774806009","url":"https:\/\/forthelouvreofantiques.com\/products\/figural-bronze-letter-opener","provider":"For the Louvre of Antiques LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}