Art Deco Polar Bear Inkstand

This is a nice example of Art Deco period desk ware. The combination of contrasting materials and geometric styling is characteristic of the era.

• Overall Form: The inkstand features a sleek, low-profile base that is oval or elliptical in shape, dominated by a figural sculpture of a polar bear.

• Sculpture: The polar bear is made of bronze and is cast in a stylized pose—it appears to be walking or striding forward. The figure’s lines are simplified and geometric rather than naturalistic, which is a key trait of Art Deco animaliers.

• Base Material: The base is a slab of polished green marble. With its deep green body and distinctive white/grey veining, it is likely Vert Maurin, Vert de Mer (Sea Green), or a similar dark green marble popular in France and Belgium for Art Deco pieces. This material was used to mimic ice flows or snow, creating a dramatic contrast with the bronze bear.
• Inkwell: The inkwell is integrated into the marble base. It is a square, stepped form with a hinged metal lid that opens to reveal the reservoir. It contains the original glass insert.

Age and Origin Estimate

• Style: The geometric streamlining of the bear sculpture and the use of strongly colored, contrasting marble places this piece in the Art Deco period. The animalier theme was especially popular in this style .
• Origin: The combination of bronze, fine marble, and the Art Deco style points strongly to France or Belgium. These countries were the main producers of luxury animalier bronzes and mixed-media desk accessories during the 1920s and 1930s. Artists like Demetre Chiparus and Maurice Prost heavily influenced this market.
• Age Estimate: circa 1920 – 1935 (High Art Deco Period)