Polychrome Inkstand with Two Barn Swallows

This is a figural inkstand featuring two birds, designed to incorporate an inkwell.

• Material: The inkstand appears to be made of a cast pot metal which has been hand-painted.
• Form: The overall shape suggests a naturalistic setting, with the two birds perched on a large, dark green leaf.
• Birds: There are two birds, each realistically sculpted and painted:
  • Colors: They predominantly feature dark, almost black, plumage on their backs and heads, with lighter, off-white or light blue, bellies and throats. Their eyes are small and dark, with a lighter ring around them.
  • Pose: The birds are positioned facing each other, or perhaps one is looking towards the viewer while the other looks away.
  • Type: Based on their appearance—the dark upper plumage, lighter underparts, and slender bodies—the birds strongly resemble swallows, particularly barn swallows (Hirundo rustica).

• Dating: “Dec 24, 1905” is hand inscribed on the underside likely marking the inkwell as a Christmas gift.