Bat Inkstand

This appears to be the common Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), a very small microbat with variable brown fur and a wide range that spans most of Europe, North Africa, and South-Central Asia. One of the most common bat species in the British Isles, it inhabits woodlands and farmland, but is also frequently found in towns, where females often roost in lofts and buildings while rearing their young.

Distinctive features of the bats used to identify this inkwell include a “simple nose”, “simple ears”, and a “sheath tail”, with consideration given to the stated origin of this inkwell as being from France (see reference pictures).

This inkstand is unmarked, making it difficult to confirm that it originates from France.

The Inkpot has many chips and appears to be original.

Sold for $1,500 (Hammer price) in September 2023