matching set of exceptional c. 1920's american art deco egyptian revival style figural bookends featuring cleopatra supporting upright temple walls containing lightly incised hieroglyphics surrounding a central entrance. the finely cast weighted bookends are comprised of pewter zinc with the original dark bronze patinated finish impeccably intact. the figural bookends were manufactured by the l.v. aronson art metal works co., newark, nj. each oversized weighted bookend is signed and dated 1924. ronson was originally founded as art metal works during the 1880's by louis v. aronson in newark, new jersey. ronson's would become both a leader and pioneer in the manufacture of fine decorative metal wares from the 1900's to the mid-1930's. in addition to cigarette lighters, for which ronson is most readily known, the company also produced a diverse selection of metal bookends, hood ornaments, statuary, aquarium and plant stands, clocks, pipe holders, desk sets and accessories, figurines, novelty items, lamps, boxes, toys, incense burners and much more. ronson is thought to have made the first hood ornaments manufactured for sale in the u.s. in about 1909. when wwii ended, the various items the company was producing such as incesne burners, bookends, aquarium stands, figurines, etc., were discontinued and the company focused on making cigarette lighters and associated items which were the most profitable. the bookends are in excellent overall condition, with no breaks, cracks or missing pieces. the green felt bottoms are firmly attached to the bases. priced for the pair. measures 6 1/2 x 5 1/4 x 5 3/4 inches.