Pair of Isamu Noguchi Style MCM Owl Figures

$1,200.00

Pair of Nambu iron Brutalist owl bookends or sculptures in the style of Isamu Noguchi, made in Japan in the 1950’s.

Measure 6″ height, 3 1/4″ width.

In very good condition.

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Art & Beautiful Things

These striking owl bookends reflect the aesthetic influence of Isamu Noguchi, one of the most celebrated sculptors and designers of the 20th century. While not directly by Noguchi, the design channels his signature approach to form and material — merging organic shapes with industrial materials to create functional art. Noguchi was a pioneer in bridging sculpture with everyday objects, emphasizing simplicity, balance, and the inherent qualities of materials. These owl bookends embrace that philosophy, demonstrating sculptural elegance in a utilitarian form.

The use of forged iron showcases the Brutalist movement’s emphasis on raw, unadorned materials, popular in the mid-20th century. Artists and designers during this period sought to highlight the texture, weight, and integrity of the medium itself. These bookends, with their abstract yet recognizable owl forms, capture the essence of mid-century modern collectible design, offering a fusion of artistry and practicality. Collectors of mid-century sculpture and decorative arts value such pieces for their aesthetic integrity and their historical resonance within post-war modernist movements.

Beyond their functional role as bookends, the owls are sculptural statements, suitable for display on a shelf, desk, or mantel. Their visual weight, textured iron surface, and minimalist yet evocative design make them appealing to collectors of Noguchi-inspired art, mid-century modern furnishings, and Brutalist metalwork. These bookends exemplify the way functional objects can simultaneously act as collectible sculptures, offering both artistic and practical value to the discerning collector.

 

Weight 5 lbs
Dimensions 10 × 10 × 10 in

Shipping and handling

Item location: MI, United States

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Our Condition Rating

Excellent – We almost never rate anything as excellent because to us, excellent means brand new and still in packaging. If we’ve only removed it from the box for photography, it still receives a "very good" rating.

Very Good – This is where most of our items fall. To us, this means as close to excellent as possible: museum-quality, with no imperfections unless noted (and even then, only very minor ones).

Good – Acceptable. Worth owning, especially if it’s difficult to find in better condition.

Fair – Rough condition. Only rated fair if the item has substantial historical value or is salvage-worthy.