19th Century French Art Nouveau Period Cast Iron Book Press

19th Century French Art Nouveau Period Cast Iron Book Press is a splendid working artifact from a bygone era!  The Art Nouveau was a relatively brief period yet its impact resounds upon the style world even to this day, with period artifacts in great demand, especially in Europe and America.  This example shows a combination of industrial age construction with hand-crafted detailing.  The nickel plated handles show wear from abundant use, which only adds to the charm.  The screw mechanism is securely situated on a bolted framework that is affixed to the lower base.  The platen is cast iron as well for durability and longevity, then painted with timeless bordering motifs specific to the era.  Originally bolted to a tabletop or surface, it was used to keep books, manuscripts and stacks of paper flat, it can still find uses in the 21st century today!
Circa 1895
Measures 11H x 13.5W x 12D when completely screwed down.