Napoleon III - Inkwell - Porcelain, Bronze

An exceptionally rare and museum-quality gilt-bronze mounted inkstand (encrier) in the exquisite Louis XV style of French Rococo. This piece captivates with its masterful combination of luxury materials, highly characteristic of the exclusive creations by the Parisian Marchands-Merciers.• The Base: A shaped wooden tray decorated with finest Asian lacquer work (Chinoiserie / Japan lacquer). The delicate gold highlights on a deep black ground depict a traditional East Asian river landscape with mountains, architecture, trees, and a flying bird.• The Porcelain: Two rare inkwell/powder pots made of finest white porcelain by the world-famous Meissen manufactory. The vessels feature a reliefed wickerwork pattern (Ozier relief) and are hand-painted within shaped reserves showing the famous, microscopic Meissen insect painting (including highly detailed renderings of caterpillars, flies, and ants). The underside of one (detached) pot features the original blue underglaze crossed swords mark. The second pot remains in its untouched original state, showing the historical putty/resin fixation on its base. The vessels are fitted with hinged, richly chased bronze inserts and lids.• The Mounts: The entire tray and the bases of the pots are framed by a magnificent, richly chased and fire-gilded bronze mounting (Ormolu) in the floral Rococo style. The four feet are crafted as stylized acanthus leaves.• The Centerpiece: Centered at the back is a sculptural, florally pierced bronze ornament (candlestick or quill holder), decorated with colorful porcelain flowers in the style of Vincennes or Meissen. The assembly on the blackened underside is secured with historical, handmade threaded rods and square nuts.Details & Condition:• Material: Gilt-bronze (Ormolu), Meissen porcelain with fine insect hand-painting, lacquered wood (Chinoiserie), porcelain flowers.• Marks: Blue underglaze Meissen crossed swords mark on one porcelain base.• Period: 19th Century (Napoleon III) in the 18th-century style.• Condition: Good overall condition consistent with age, with a charming, authentic patina. The fire-gilding of the bronzes is beautifully preserved. One porcelain pot is loose (the historical mounting putty has dried out, the pot itself is intact), the second pot is still firmly attached. The lacquer tray shows age-appropriate rubbing, fine lines, and minimal spots in the surface finish (see detail photos). Important note on the porcelain flowers: One of the fine white blossoms of the centerpiece has detached and is included loose (it is largely intact and can be reattached); the remaining flowers show minor flea bites/chips on the delicate edges typical for this age. No major modern damage or improper restorations visible.Technical Specifications:• Length: 48 cm• Width / Depth: 28 cm• Height: 21 cm• Weight: 1970 g