Brass Inkstand with Griffins

This inkstand is cast from brass, with a heavy, rectangular base with handles, supported by four ornate feet. The front of the base has a long, recessed channel for holding pens. It holds a total of three inkwells: a large, central urn-shaped inkwell, flanked by a smaller inkwell on each side. All three have domed, hinged lids. The entire piece is decorated with a detailed foliate (leaf and vine) pattern.

The most striking decorative elements are the two figures at the front corners. These are griffins, which are mythological creatures with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. They were often used in decorative arts as powerful guardians.