Antique 1849 Cornelius & Co. Brass Colonial Figurine Pair -Signed Girandoles-Last of the Mohicans Mantle Decor/Bookends

A magnificent pair of mid 19th-century antique cast brass figural girandole panels, designed by celebrated Philadelphia maker Cornelius & Co. Finely detailed flatback sculptures depict an elegant 18th-century courtier couple-a gentleman in a tricorne hat and a lady in a tiered gown-set against a decorative trees background.  The figures are Major Duncan Heyward and Cora Munro, characters from James Fenimore Cooper’s 1826 novel The Last of the Mohicans. 

Originally engineered as the central ornamental figures for luxury marble-based candelabras, they make exceptional standalone mantel ornaments, library styling or fireplace garnitures.

Maker: Cornelius & Co., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA                                                         Both figures feature the rare, highly documented incised cursive script signature reading "Cornelius & Co" across the reverse on the sides of figurines

Age: mid-19th century, patented around 1849

Dimensions: height lady 24.5cm/9.6”, height gentleman 25.5cm/10”  

bases 15cm/5.9” x 6.5cm/2.5”, weight 1670 gr

Condition: good antique condition; aged patina, verdigris highlights, and surface rust under hollow bases. Gentleman figure has a narrow casting gap where the lower scenic edge meets the plinth; it is tightly secured, does not impact stability.

Note to Buyers: These are the raw, standalone figural brass castings. They do not include the original marble bases, crystal prisms, or candle arms. They are sold exactly as shown, ready to be utilized as bookends or fireplace mantel features.

Your order will be carefully packaged for safe package arrival, using reused materials when possible. All items are vintage or antiques, therefore shows signs of wear, please inspect closely all photos. Please contact if you have any additional questions.

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