Champlevé Inkstand

This is a French Champlevé inkstand featuring a pen tray and pen holder. The inkwell is centrally positioned on the tray and has a lid with a pointed finial. The body of the inkwell, along with the surrounding tray, is adorned with colorful enamel inlays in blue, red, white, and turquoise hues forming intricate patterns. These patterns are characteristic of the Champlevé technique where enamel is applied within recesses etched into metal surfaces. The pen tray is made of onyx, exhibiting creamy white and brownish tones with natural veining.

Champlevé is an enameling technique in which troughs or cells are carved into the surface of a metal object and filled with vitreous enamel. Afterward, the piece is fired until the enamel fuses to the metal, and then it’s polished to smooth out any irregularities. This method creates vibrant, intricate designs that are both durable and visually striking.