Beehive and Bounty

This gilt bronze inkstand presents a meticulously composed allegorical representation centered on agrarian labor and natural abundance. The principal element is a beehive, positioned centrally, surmounted by a haystack-form cover. The surface of the hive is adorned with several bees rendered in relief.

To either side of the central motif are two covered baskets. These are densely ornamented with high-relief depictions of fruits, and flowers, each symbolizing the themes of harvest. At the base of one basket is situated a bird, bent toward an adjacent, larger basket-shaped receptacle intended for sand. The lid of this vessel is cast in the form of a wheat sheave, with a perched bird forming the handle.

The verso of the inkstand is constructed as a dense cluster of agricultural implements, including a sickle, spade, trowel, scythe, ring pliers, and pitchfork. These tools are bound together with a ribbon motif and further embellished with garlands of flowers, grape clusters, and wheat. This assembly forms a secondary decorative axis, while also functioning as a support for a writing quill.

The base consists of sculpted logs arranged in a naturalistic manner and topped with simulated wooden planks, evoking a rustic work surface. An additional figural element—a mouse—is positioned adjacent to the handle of the forward basket, engaged in the act of nibbling a wheat stalk.

There appear to be shared design elements between this inkstand and another on this website, including motifs such as the harvest basket, wheat sheaves, and harvesting tools. These similarities strongly suggest that both inkstands were likely produced by the same manufacturer.

Please see: https://inkwellresearch.com/inkipedia/turn-wrest-plough/?

Suggested auction price: $4,500

Fair market appraisal: $$2,008 – $3,012