Decorative Brass Duck Trinket Box
Decorative Art, Small Box • Unknown / Mass-produced. Likely manufactured for the giftware or home decor market (common in South Asian or East Asian export markets during this era).
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern influence / Traditional Giftware
Medium & Technique
Cast brass or brass-plated alloy duck figurine mounted on a lacquered or stained wood/composite box with a high-gloss finish.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (Circa 1970s - 1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Small handheld scale; approximately 4 to 6 inches in width, rectangular format.
Subject Description
The piece features a stylized, minimalist duck (possibly a loon or mallard silhouette) as a handle or decorative finial on the lid of a rectangular box. The dark wood finish suggests rosewood or mahogany imitation, typical of library or desk accessories.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The brass shows some surface oxidation and patina consistent with age. The box lid has minor edge wear and light surface scratches.
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $35 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Provenance History
Unknown. These items were widely sold in department stores like Sears, J.C. Penney, or gift shops during the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Low art historical significance. This is a functional decorative object rather than a fine art piece, representing the trend for wildlife-themed desk accessories in 20th-century interior design.
Notable Features
The minimalist, sleek design of the duck reflects a late-modernist aesthetic, prioritizing smooth lines over anatomical detail.
Condition Issues
Tarnish on the brass element; light scratching on the high-gloss box surface; potential loosening of the adhesive or screw holding the duck to the lid.
Conservation Recommendations
Gently clean the brass with a soft cloth for metal; use a wood polish for the box. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could strip the lacquer finish.