A characteristic feature of Beau's works is the combination of metals of contrasting colours
These pair of bookends are made of ormolu mounted hammered patinated bronze and copper
Each with the mask of Medusa flanked by two wings in her curling hair on radiate background
Stamped Paul Beau & Co. Montreal, within a circle
Circa 1915-1920
14.5 cm x 11.2 cm
Height 12 cm
Paul Beau (Montreal 1871-1949) was the leading member of the Canadian Arts & Crafts movement.
Beau’s career peaked from 1920 to 1926 when he took over a wrought iron workshop at the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa with a commission to supply a broad range of decorative metal work for the central building: fireplace accessories, hinges, vanes, grilles, light fixtures, wrought iron gates and railings.
Also, on the long oak table in front of the Speaker of the House of Commons - so familiar to Canadians television viewers - the calendar stand, the inkstand and seal press are the handiwork of iron master Paul Beau.