Souvenir of Paris – Arc de Triomphe

Description

This Art Deco souvenir inkstand features a detailed miniature architectural cast model of the Arc de Triomphe elevated at the center rear, labeled on its base front with “Souvenir de Paris _ L’ARC DE TRIOMPHE”. Below the model, the base opens into a curved front pen tray flanked by two integral octagonal inkwell housings. Each housing features a matching hinged octagonal lid that lifts to reveal the original removable clear glass inserts. The inkstand retains a dual-tone finish, with a copper/bronze patina on the arch and a silvered metal finish across the main tray body.

Mark on the Underside

• Base Underside Mark: The underside of the metal base displays a circular stamped/cast mark reading “MADE IN FRANCE” arched around the top edge, with the mold or model number “2499” stamped across the bottom edge.
• Lid Underside Marks: The underside of each octagonal hinged lid is also impressed with the matching model number 2499.

Manufacturing Date This inkstand was manufactured in France circa the 1930s. The geometric step-cut lids, sweeping side channels, and streamlined base silhouette are classic hallmarks of the Art Deco design movement of the 1920s–1930s.

History of the Arc de Triomphe

• Commission: Commissioned in 1806 by Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte following his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz to honor the military successes of the French Grande Armée.
• Construction: Designed by architect Jean-François Chalgrin, construction experienced prolonged delays due to Napoleon’s abdication and political shifts, ultimately taking thirty years to complete.
• Inauguration: Officially inaugurated on July 29, 1836, during the reign of King Louis-Philippe.
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: In November 1920, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Tombe du Soldat Inconnu) from World War I was installed beneath the arch, where an eternal flame has burned continuously since 1923 in memory of fallen service members.