U.S. Patent No. D858,154 S (‘154) issued on September 3, 2019, for “Stocking Holder.” It was issued to inventor/applicant Brad Michael Bourgoyne of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The assignee is Fig & Dove, Inc. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This patent is a design patent under 35 U.S.C. §171, which protects the ornamental features of an article of manufacture. The features cover the holder and the mounting piece which is adhered to the fireplace mantle. Neither the mantlepiece nor the adhesive material are protected as part of the ornametal feature of the ‘154 patent.
Figure 1 below illustrates the ornamental features of the stocking holder.
Under 35 U.S.C. §173, the ‘154 patent, like all design patents, has a patent term of 15 years, and expires on September 3, 2034 (MPEP 1505).
The Cooperative Patent Classifications are A47F (special furniture, fittings, or accessories for shops, storehouses, bars, restaurants, or the like; paying counters). The search classification indicates that the design is not specific to a holiday stocking; it can be used in commercial settings to hold perhaps clothing or bags from a counter.
While not the most novel of inventions, this patent, however, is a very practical design reflective of one of our most celebrated holidays. Please contact Yonaxis for more information on design patents, or patents in general, if you have any questions.
Merry Christmas!