19th Century French Louis XVI Style Gilt Bronze & Marble Inkwell with Pen Rest

$475

About

Crafted in France circa 1880, this elegant desk inkwell is a refined example of Louis XVI style design. The square base is fashioned from richly veined dark green marble with molded edges and rests on four gilt bronze toupie feet with beaded collars. The front is decorated with a finely cast gilt bronze mount depicting a quiver of arrows crossed with a flaming torch and tied with ribbon — a neoclassical symbol of enlightenment, the arts, and the pursuit of knowledge. At the center stands an urn-shaped inkwell, beautifully cast in gilt bronze with acanthus and laurel swag motifs. The hinged lid opens to reveal the original white porcelain ink pot, The piece offers a pen rest at the top edges of the marble platform, uniting beauty with practicality. Elegant and substantial, this antique inkwell would make a sophisticated addition to a desk, library, or office, serving equally well as a display object or functional writing accessory. In excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with a beautiful patinated finish that enhances its classical appeal. Measures: 5.75″W x 5.75″D x 4.75″H

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