Inkipedia
1839 Paris Médaille D’Argent Pump Inkstand
| Categories | Mechanical - Pump / Siphon |
| Type | Pump |
| Material | Bronze, Porcelain |
| Markings | See Narrative |
| Manufacturer | Boquet |
| Origin | France |
| Date or Era | circa 1840 |
| Measuring | Base: 4”; 4 ¾” high |
Louis Honoré Boquet was an innovator with pump style inkwells, perfecting a system in which a plunger, when a knob is turned, makes the ink flow into the exterior font. “Médaille D’Argent 1839”, which is stamped into the turning knob, touts an award from the “Societé d’encouragement pour l’Industrie” (Association for encouragement of industry).
This example of a Boquet pump-style inkstand is made of bronze and porcelain decorated with gold stripes on a blue background. Notice the exterior font in the shape of a lion’s head. The knob is marked “Medaille D’Argent 1839” in the center and “Encrier Pompe Bouquet Brevete” around the edge. A pen rack that accommodates three pens is attached to the rear.
To see how a pump inkwell works, check out this video:
Sold for $340 in December 2023
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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