Frankart: American Art Deco Metal Sculptures and Accessories
Frankart, Inc. was an American manufacturer of Art Deco decorative accessories founded by Arthur Von Frankenberg in New York City in 1921, producing patinated metal figurines, lamps, ashtrays, bookends, and decorative objects until approximately 1934. The company is best known for its stylized nude female figures in green, black, or bronze-colored finishes that epitomize the Art Deco aesthetic. Frankart pieces are among the most recognizable and collected American Art Deco objects.
History and Production
- 1921: Arthur Von Frankenberg establishes Frankart, Inc. in New York City
- 1920s-early 1930s: Peak production period; company produces a large catalogue of Art Deco accessories
- c. 1934: Company ceases operation during the Depression
- Pieces were manufactured from spelter (zinc alloy) and white metal, then finished with green, black, or bronze-toned patina
- Designs feature stylized female nudes in angular, geometric poses characteristic of Art Deco
- Items were produced as functional accessories: lamps, ashtrays, bookends, and smoke stands
Types of Frankart Objects
- Figural lamps: Nude figures holding or supporting glass globes, shades, or panels
- Ashtrays and smoke stands: Standing or tabletop ashtrays with figural supports
- Bookends: Paired figural bookends in various poses
- Table accessories: Cigarette boxes, match holders, and pen trays
- Wall sconces: Figural wall-mounted light fixtures
- Clocks: Figural clock housings with Art Deco styling
Identification and Marks
- Genuine pieces are marked "FRANKART INC" (or "FRANKART INC.") followed by "PAT. APPL'D FOR" or "PAT. PEND."
- Some pieces carry patent dates or model numbers
- The patina is typically a matte green (most common), satin black, or bronzed finish
- The metal is spelter (zinc alloy), which is lighter than bronze and has a different ring when tapped
- Figures are stylized with smooth, simplified features and angular poses
- Glass elements (shades, globes, panels) should be original; most were frosted or crackle glass
Auction Price Ranges
| Item Type | Typical Range | Premium Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Ashtray with figure | $100 - $300 | Elaborate design: $400 - $800 |
| Bookend pair | $150 - $400 | Rare model: $500 - $1,200 |
| Table lamp with figure | $200 - $600 | With original shade: $800 - $2,000 |
| Smoke stand | $150 - $500 | Tall, figural: $600 - $1,500 |
| Wall sconce (pair) | $200 - $600 | With glass panels: $800 - $1,800 |
| Clock with figure | $200 - $500 | Working, original: $600 - $1,500 |
| Cigarette box | $80 - $200 | Elaborate: $250 - $500 |
Condition Factors
- Patina: Original green or black patina should be intact; repatinated or repainted pieces are worth less
- Glass elements: Original frosted or crackle glass shades, globes, and panels are essential; replacements reduce value by 30-50%
- Metal integrity: Spelter can crack, chip, or flake; stress cracks at joints and bases are common
- Completeness: All original components (glass, electrical fittings, mounting hardware) should be present
- Electrical: Lamps should be rewired for safety; original wiring is a fire hazard but original sockets add authenticity
Collecting Tips
- Figural lamps with original glass shades are the most sought-after and valuable Frankart category
- The green patina finish is the most common and most associated with the brand; black is less common
- Reproductions and copies are widespread; examine marks, metal quality, and patina carefully
- Nuart (a competitor) produced similar Art Deco accessories; pieces are sometimes confused
- Frankart pairs well with other American Art Deco pieces including Chase Chrome and machine-age accessories
- The short production period (approximately 1921-1934) means total output was finite