matching set of original highly sought after and finely-executed c. 1920's american art deco "egyptian scribe" figural bookends comprised of cast spelter or zinc with the original dark bronze wash or plated finish intact. the recessed regions are accentuated with a patinated green finish. the square bases are adorned with lightly incised hieroglyphics. the egyptian-revival bookends are attributed to aronson metal works, newark, nj. 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. priced for the pair.