Chinoiserie Double Inkstand

This inkstand, an example of the European taste Chinoiserie decorative arts, is made of high-quality porcelain and is meticulously hand-painted with a vibrant color palette of cobalt blue and yellow, accented with raised gold scrollwork. The painted scenes depict delicate flowers and birds, which are consistent with the “oriental” style popular in Europe at the time. The raised gold scrollwork is highly ornate, featuring a quiver and arrows, a common mythological symbol often associated with Cupid, which was also a popular motif on decorative items from this period. The two inkwells are covered with elegant, hinged lids. The finials of these lids are finely modeled male and female figures in a traditional “Orientalist” or Chinese style. They are painted to represent a Chinese couple in traditional dress.

The mark on the underside is a “Crossed L” mark with an additional symbol and painted letters or numbers. While it’s not a genuine Sèvres mark, it is a direct copy of the famous Sèvres porcelain manufactory mark from France. The practice of using the “Crossed L” mark was widespread among other French and European porcelain makers, who sought to capitalize on the prestige of Sèvres.

Origin and History

This inkstand was made in France during the late 19th century, a period of renewed interest in decorative arts from the 18th century. The style is often referred to as “Sèvres-style” or “Paris porcelain.” The Paris porcelain factories, in particular, created many pieces that emulated the high quality and intricate designs of the Sèvres factory, using similar marks and motifs. This piece’s use of a famous European mark alongside Chinese-inspired motifs is characteristic of the Chinoiserie style of the time. The attention to detail in the hand-painted birds and flowers and the raised gilding on this inkstand points to a high level of craftsmanship, even though it is not from the Sèvres manufactory itself.