Cast Brass Bird Inkwell

This brass inkstand likely dates from the late 19th century (circa 1875–1895).

Description

• Central Inkwell: The centerpiece is a circular brass housing designed to hold an ink pot (the insert is missing here).
• The Bird Finial: The most striking feature is the cast bird atop the removable lid. The bird is depicted with partially spread wings and a prominent crest or tuft on its head. This likely represents a cockatoo or a fancy crested pigeon, both of which were popular exotic motifs in Victorian decorative arts.
• Pen Holders: The square base features four cylindrical cup-style holders at each corner. These were designed to hold dip pens or quills upright, ready for use.
• Shell Trays: Flanking the central base are two large, fluted scallop shell trays. These served as “pen rests” or “tidy trays” for holding extra nibs, wax seals, or pens horizontally.
• Material: It is made of cast brass with a natural aged patina.

Origin and Date

• Origin: This style of highly decorative brassware was most frequently produced in France (during the Napoleon III era) or England. The “shell and four-cup” configuration is very characteristic of French or Italian continental brassware from the late 1800s.
• Date: Based on the casting style and the popularity of the scallop shell motif, it was almost certainly made between 1875 and 1895.