Inkwell - Bronze

Prestigious inkwell in bronze, gilded and silvered - Erosa Napoleon III (Late 19th Century) NO RESERVE

Incredible example of high French craftsmanship, this desk inkwell perfectly embodies the Eclectic style typical of the Napoleon III period. Not a simple utilitarian object, but a true decorative sculpture intended to embellish the desks of the finest aristocracy or upper middle class of the late nineteenth century.

The piece rests on a solid rectangular base elevated by elegant bracket feet. The front tray, intended to house pens, is finely chiseled with foliate volute motifs and arabesques, finished with a gadrooned edge that lends a sense of solemnity and order.

At the center stands the ink container, conceived as a small classical temple. The domed lid, surmounted by a pinecone finial, protects the inner compartment.

The front of the inkwell is decorated with a highly defined bas-relief plaque depicting a Neoclassical-inspired scene with figures in period clothing, probably a tribute to the arts or to philosophy.

On either side of the inkwell stand two majestic winged sphinxes, a distinctive element of the 'Retour d'Égypte' taste so dear to the Empire style and subsequently masterfully reinterpreted in the Napoleon III era.

Bronze with a double patina (brown and gold) that creates a chromatic contrast of great depth.

Era: Late 19th century

Style: Napoleon III / Eclecticism.

Condition: good, with a splendid original patina of age that attests to its authenticity and historical charm.

Dimensions: Length 21.5 cm - Height 11 cm - Depth 16 cm

Courier shipping with professional packaging for works of art; we do not ship outside the European Union.

English

Prestigious Gilt and Silvered Bronze Inkstand – Napoleon III Period (Late 19th Century)
No reserve

​An incredible example of high French craftsmanship, this desk inkstand perfectly embodies the Eclectic style typical of the Napoleon III period. More than a decorative object, it is a true sculpture designed to grace the desks of the finest aristocracy and upper bourgeoisie of the late 1800s

​The piece rests on a solid rectangular base supported by elegant bracket feet. The front tray, intended for pens, is finely chased with leafy scrolls and arabesque motifs, finished with a gadrooned border that lends a sense of solemnity and order

At the center sits the inkwell, designed as a small classical temple. The domed lid, topped with a pinecone finial, protects the inner compartment

The front of the inkstand is decorated with an exceptionally defined bas-relief plaque, depicting a Neoclassical scene with figures in period dress—likely a tribute to the arts or philosophy

Flanking the inkwell are two majestic winged sphinxes, a distinctive element of the Retour d'Égypte (Egyptian Revival) taste so dear to the Empire style and masterfully reinterpreted during the Napoleon III era

Bronze with a double patina (dark and gilt), creating a chromatic contrast of great depth

​Period: Late 19th century
Style: Napoleon III / Eclecticism

Condition: Good, with a stunning original patina that attests to its authenticity and historical charm

Dimensions: Length 21.5 cm – Height 11 cm – Depth 16 cm

Shipping: Professional packaging for fine art; shipping via courier

Note: Shipping is available within the European Union only