Art Nouveau Gilt Bronze Inkstand

This Art Nouveau inkstand, made from gilt bronze, is a flowing, organic composition centered around a female face, typical of the Art Nouveau movement’s emphasis on natural forms and stylized feminine beauty.

The inkstand has an asymmetrical, undulating form, reminiscent of a large, stylized leaf or a flowing organic shape. The central focus is a sculpted woman’s face, framed by long, flowing hair that transforms into intricate, swirling lines. The woman’s hair cascades into expansive, billowing, wing-like patterns that make up the main body of the inkstand and serves as a pen rest. Above the face is the hinge lid covering the inkwell, suggestive of a lily pad or stylized leaf.

The rear of the inkstand is impressed “MAXIM”. I believe this refers to George Maxim (1885-1940). Georges Maxim was a well-known French sculptor who worked in bronze and specialized in decorative objects and figural pieces, often in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles.