Cast Brass Rococo Revival Inkstand

Description

• The Inkwell: The central inkwell is designed in a classical urn form. It features two prominent scrolled side handles and sits upon a short, ribbed pedestal base. The hinged, domed lid opens to reveal a clear, original blown-glass liner insert. It is topped with a molded pineapple finial.
• The Tray Base: The expansive base is an openwork (pierced) cartouche-shaped tray decorated with asymmetrical scrolling vines, acanthus leaf flourishes, and stylized fleur-de-lis motifs at the front and back center edges. The textured backgrounds within the scrollwork frames feature a fine, cross-hatched or basketweave pattern.
• Construction: The underside confirms it is a solid cast brass piece. The inkwell itself is securely mounted to the openwork tray via a central brass threaded rod and hex nut mechanism.

Origin, Maker, and Period

Because this piece bears no foundry stamps, pattern numbers, or hallmarks, a definitive attribution to a single manufacturer is difficult.

• Where it was made: Most likely the United States or England. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, major brass foundries in both regions produced large volumes of highly decorative desk accessories utilizing these specific design books.
• When it was made: Circa 1890–1905. The heavy casting, the type of threaded nut assembly, and the transitional blend of Rococo revival scrolls with early Art Nouveau-influenced flowing vines firmly place it in the late Victorian to early Edwardian era.