Double Inkstand with Cupid Handles

Rococo Revival Double Inkstand

Motif

• Figure Type: The handles represent cherubs (or putti), depicted as winged celestial child heads emerging from classical scrollwork and a central shield/cartouche.

Description

• The Tray / Stand: Cast brass with pierced, openwork Rococo Revival filigree featuring scrolling acanthus leaves, rosette corners, and central shell/foliate crests. It rests on four turned brass bun feet. The base plate features raised rectangular collars peened from underneath to securely cradle the inkwells.
• The Inkwells: Two matching heavy cut-crystal square wells with beveled corners, polished cylindrical wells, and brass collar mounts.
• The Lids: Beveled, faceted geometric cut-crystal dome tops set into hinged brass bezels.

Period & Date

• Circa 1880–1910
• The peened brass rivet construction visible on the underside, combined with the hand-cut crystal and Rococo Revival openwork casting, is typical of late 19th-century luxury desk ware.