French Empire-Style Desk Set

This is a four-piece desk set, characterized by its contrast of dark bronze and gilded mounts, and its rich, classical decorations.

• Materials: The main body of each piece is a very dark bronze, with a deep green or nearly black patina. This is complemented by polished, gilt bronze (ormolu) mounts. This combination of materials was a signature feature of high-end French furniture and decorative objects during the Empire period.
• Design and Theme: The set is an expression of the French Empire style, which drew heavily from the art of ancient Rome and Egypt. The decorations are a harmonious blend of Roman themes and Napoleonic symbolism.
  • Neoclassical Roman Scenes: The main bodies of the pieces are adorned with high-relief plaques depicting classical Roman scenes, showing figures in togas and draped clothing. These scenes often depict mythology, historical events, or allegories of virtue and power.
  • Napoleonic Motifs: The blotter features the “N” with a crown, a direct reference to Napoleon Bonaparte. This is a common motif in Empire-period art, as Napoleon sought to legitimize his rule by associating it with the grandeur of the Roman Empire. The Napoleonic bees (a symbol of immortality and resurrection, used as a personal emblem by Napoleon) are also visible on the blotter, further solidifying the connection.
• The Four Pieces:
  • Inkwell: A square-shaped container with the decorative plaques on its sides and a gilt bronze lid, with a glass insert.
  • Letter Holder: A stand with a vertical back and a sloped front, with an opening to hold letters and documents. The front face is decorated with a large neoclassical scene.
  • Rocker Blotter: A curved, half-cylinder shaped object with a flat handle. This was used to quickly absorb excess ink from a freshly written page by rocking it over the text. The handle and sides are decorated with the Napoleonic “N,” crown, and bees.
  • Stamp Box: A small, lidded box for holding postage stamps. It, too, is decorated with classical scenes and gilt mounts.

Age of the Set

The use of the French Empire style, including the Napoleonic motifs and the general aesthetic, places the creation of this set squarely within a specific historical window. This style was prominent during Napoleon’s reign and slightly thereafter.

Therefore, the most likely age of this set is the early 19th century, specifically the Empire period (c. 1804–1820s).