Ceramic Inkstand with Clock

This is a French ceramic inkstand and desk clock set dating from the early 20th century. This type of piece is sometimes referred to as a garniture de bureau.

Construction and Form

• Material: The base is a molded ceramic or faience body, rather than porcelain, suggested by the heavy molding and matte decoration style.
• Structure: It is a single, broad, multi-component desk set featuring a central architectural element that houses the clock, flanked by two functional inkwells.
• Inkwells: There are two circular lidded inkwells positioned symmetrically on either side of the central clock.
• Markings:
  • The clock face is explicitly marked “Made in France”.
  • The underside of the ceramic base is impressed with the number “3126,” which is likely a model, mold, or catalog number used by the manufacturer.

Decoration and Style

The entire piece is decorated in a Neoclassical or Louis XVI Revival style, using contrasting colors for maximum visual impact:

• Background Color: The inkstand features a deep green matte background color, which provides a dramatic contrast for the applied elements.
• Applied Elements: The ornamentation is rich and heavily utilizes applied, molded decoration in a vibrant, contrasting palette of pastel green and blue. This coloring is typical of ceramics imitating expensive inlaid or relief-decorated bronze.
• Motifs: The relief decoration is drawn from classical and formal designs:
  • Swags and Garlands: Elaborate neoclassical swags, garlands, and drapery hang across the front, creating a festive, architectural look.
  • Ribbons and Bows: Molded ribbons, bows (or nœuds), and tassels are placed at the top and base of the central clock element.
  • Rosettes and Medallions: Rosettes or circular medallions are prominently placed above the inkwells.
  • Columnar/Architectural Detail: The central clock body and the vertical sections beneath the inkwells are given a column-like or pillar treatment.

Clock Detail

• The clock itself is integrated into the central, elevated portion of the stand. It features a brass bezel and a white face with clear black numerals and hands, confirming its French origin.