1931 Colonial Exhibition Souvenir

Narrative and Historical Background

This inkwell is made of spelter (known as régule in French). Spelter is a zinc-based alloy that was frequently used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a more affordable, yet highly detailed, alternative to bronze.

The 1931 International Colonial Exhibition: The brass plaque on the base is a significant historical marker. It refers to the Exposition Coloniale Internationale, a massive six-month event held in the Bois de Vincennes, Paris. This exhibition was designed to showcase the diverse cultures and “treasures” of the French colonial empire. Objects like this inkwell were sold as high-end souvenirs, allowing visitors to bring a piece of the “exotic” world home to their studies or offices.

Style and Symbolism: The piece belongs to the Orientalism movement. In this era, European artists were fascinated by the North African desert and the Middle East. The scene depicts a Bedouin woman in flowing robes sitting atop a dromedary camel, which is led by a guide on foot.

• The Inkwell Mechanism: The rocky mound behind the camel is hinged and opens to access the inkwell.

3. The Artist: Adolphe Oudet

The signature “A. Oudet” is clearly impressed on the base.

• Who was he? Adolphe Oudet was a French sculptor active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• His Work: He was specialized in “animalier” (animal) sculptures and genre scenes. While not as world-famous as bronze masters like Barye, he was highly respected for his ability to capture the fine details of animal anatomy and textured fabrics.
• Authenticity: His signature on this piece, combined with the official exhibition plaque, confirms this was a mass-produced decorative item authorized for sale at the 1931 Paris event.