A striking and sculptural pair of vintage porcelain fox bookends produced for Takahashi San Francisco, embodying that refined, quietly luxe aesthetic that feels equally at home in a Ralph Lauren–inspired library or a collected English country house. Each fox stands alert and poised, finished in a richly hand-painted reddish-orange glaze with dark brown “socks” and softly contrasting white-tipped tails. The highly distinctive crackle glaze adds depth and dimension, catching light beautifully across their forms.
Set atop substantial rectangular bases with a textured finish and subtle gold-tone striping, these bookends balance decorative presence with practical function. Hidden fill ports on the underside allow for added weight if desired—an elevated detail that speaks to their thoughtful design. A sophisticated, character-rich pair that reads as both sporting and timeless.
CONDITION
No chips or cracks observed. Light wear to gold-tone stripes consistent with age.
Overall, both display beautifully.
SIZE
Length: 6"
Width: 2 3/4"
Height: 7 1/4"
Weight (pair, unfilled): 2 lbs
PROVENANCE
Produced for Takahashi Trading Company, San Francisco, 1970s
MAKER
Takahashi
MATERIAL
Fine porcelain with glossy crackle glaze finish
WHY WE LOVE THIS
This is exactly the kind of piece that elevates a room without trying too hard. The fox motif feels heritage and sporting, while the crackle glaze and rich coloration give it that layered, collected look. They read far more bespoke than their origin suggests—and that’s the magic. Perfectly symmetrical but not sterile, polished but still warm.
STYLING SUGGESTION
Style these on a dark wood bookshelf layered over a stack of leather-bound books, or flank them on either side of a low stack of equestrian titles on a console. They also work beautifully in a study paired with a brass lamp, plaid textiles, and a chinoiserie or sporting oil painting—leaning fully into that tailored, Ralph Lauren–esque atmosphere.
