Brass Duck Stapler
Sculptural decorative art object and functional desk accessory • Unknown manufacturer, likely mass-produced by a novelty or office supply foundry
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Americana novelty deskware
Medium & Technique
Cast and polished brass with steel mechanical stapling components
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century, circa 1950s-1970s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 5 inches in length by 3 inches in height
Subject Description
A stylized duck with detailed wing feathers serving as the top lever for a mechanical office stapler, combining utilitarian functionality with whimsical animal iconography
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good, showing minor surface tarnish, light patina, and gentle wear consistent with functional desktop use
Estimated Market Value
25 to 50 USD
Auction Estimate
15 to 30 USD
Provenance History
Acquired through general household circulation, typical of mid-century office and home decor items
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the mid-century trend of anthropomorphic and zoomorphic office accessories that brought playful design into the corporate and domestic workspace
Notable Features
Clever integration of a duck's anatomy with a functional spring-loaded office stapler, utilizing the winged body as the pressing lever
Condition Issues
Minor surface scuffs, slight oxidation spots on the brass, and minor wear on the chrome-plated steel stapler mechanism
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a dry environment; optionally polish gently with a non-abrasive brass cleaner if a brighter finish is desired, though the current patina adds vintage character