Calamaio da scrittoio in stile neogotico - Inkwell - Brass
05
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20
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43
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17
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Current bid
€ 80
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Anna Hue-Roques
Holds bachelor's degrees in Law and Art History with an Ecole du Louvre auctioneer diploma.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
 | €80 | |
|---|---|---|
| €70 | |
| €60 | |
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This 1850–1900 Neo-Gothic brass desk inkwell has an integrated working bell, two removable porcelain ink pots and a perforated metal pounce pot.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Desktop inkwell in neogothic style with a functioning bell, double inkwell holder, and powder sprinkler
Elegant and distinctive multifunction metal desk inkstand, decorated with an elaborate neogothic architectural design and an unusual integrated bell at the top.
The object features a cylindrical body enriched with rich relief decoration inspired by Gothic architecture, with ogival arches, cusped elements, stylized floral motifs, and filigree ornaments. The circular base is adorned with a continuous band of geometric vegetal motifs.
The upper cone-shaped cover repeats the same ornamental motifs as the underlying structure, creating a stylistically homogeneous ensemble. The cover also constitutes a perfectly functioning bell, equipped with its own internal metal clapper, which produces a sound when it is moved.
By lifting the bell, access is gained to the accessories layer, which includes:
* Two removable white porcelain trays originally intended to hold ink.
* A small cylindrical metal container with a pierced and decorated summit, plausibly a powder sprinkler for ink drying.
* Further circular openings, presumably intended to accommodate pens or other writing accessories.
The internal elements are removable, allowing access to the underlying structure. The lower part features an assembly system with a central threaded pin and metal mounting components.
The realization is characterized by particularly elaborate decoration, with raised surfaces and a natural patina that highlights the depth of the ornamental motifs.
Style and dating
The object presents stylistic characteristics attributable to the Gothic Revival, particularly widespread in European decorative arts in the 19th century. The actual dating and manufacturing origin are not documented.
Conditions of conservation
The object is presented in usable condition, with signs of aging, color variations, superficial oxidations, and greenish patina, especially visible in the internal parts.
The two porcelain trays show deposits and traces of prior use.
The bell is functional and retains the original or currently mounted bell hammer. No factory marks, signatures, or stamps have been identified.
Dimensions and technical characteristics
* Overall height: 14 cm
* Base diameter: 8.5 cm
* Overall weight: 602 g
* Materials: copper-based metal, likely brass or bronze, and white porcelain
* Style: Gothic Revival
* Manufacture: not identified
* Production period: not ascertained
* Bell operation: verified
The piece includes the decorative structure, the upper bell, the two porcelain trays, and the pierced metal container, as documented in the photographs.
An interesting example of a stylistically historicist desk accessory that combines the function of an inkwell with that of a tabletop bell. Suitable for collectors of writing objects, desk accessories, and Gothic Revival decorative arts.
The photographs are an integral part of the description and document the state of conservation and the individual components of the object.
Desktop inkwell in neogothic style with a functioning bell, double inkwell holder, and powder sprinkler
Elegant and distinctive multifunction metal desk inkstand, decorated with an elaborate neogothic architectural design and an unusual integrated bell at the top.
The object features a cylindrical body enriched with rich relief decoration inspired by Gothic architecture, with ogival arches, cusped elements, stylized floral motifs, and filigree ornaments. The circular base is adorned with a continuous band of geometric vegetal motifs.
The upper cone-shaped cover repeats the same ornamental motifs as the underlying structure, creating a stylistically homogeneous ensemble. The cover also constitutes a perfectly functioning bell, equipped with its own internal metal clapper, which produces a sound when it is moved.
By lifting the bell, access is gained to the accessories layer, which includes:
* Two removable white porcelain trays originally intended to hold ink.
* A small cylindrical metal container with a pierced and decorated summit, plausibly a powder sprinkler for ink drying.
* Further circular openings, presumably intended to accommodate pens or other writing accessories.
The internal elements are removable, allowing access to the underlying structure. The lower part features an assembly system with a central threaded pin and metal mounting components.
The realization is characterized by particularly elaborate decoration, with raised surfaces and a natural patina that highlights the depth of the ornamental motifs.
Style and dating
The object presents stylistic characteristics attributable to the Gothic Revival, particularly widespread in European decorative arts in the 19th century. The actual dating and manufacturing origin are not documented.
Conditions of conservation
The object is presented in usable condition, with signs of aging, color variations, superficial oxidations, and greenish patina, especially visible in the internal parts.
The two porcelain trays show deposits and traces of prior use.
The bell is functional and retains the original or currently mounted bell hammer. No factory marks, signatures, or stamps have been identified.
Dimensions and technical characteristics
* Overall height: 14 cm
* Base diameter: 8.5 cm
* Overall weight: 602 g
* Materials: copper-based metal, likely brass or bronze, and white porcelain
* Style: Gothic Revival
* Manufacture: not identified
* Production period: not ascertained
* Bell operation: verified
The piece includes the decorative structure, the upper bell, the two porcelain trays, and the pierced metal container, as documented in the photographs.
An interesting example of a stylistically historicist desk accessory that combines the function of an inkwell with that of a tabletop bell. Suitable for collectors of writing objects, desk accessories, and Gothic Revival decorative arts.
The photographs are an integral part of the description and document the state of conservation and the individual components of the object.
Details
Era
1400-1900
Number of objects
1
Material
Brass
Designer/artist/maker
Calamaio da scrittoio in stile neogotico
Country of origin
Italy
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
14 cm
Width
8.5 cm
Estimated period
1850-1900
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