Classical French Porcelain Inkstand

Description

This inkstand combines painted porcelain with elaborate gilded bronze mounts.

• Porcelain Body: The main body of the inkstand is a painted porcelain base with an integrated, central urn-shaped inkwell. The base is decorated with pastel-toned pastoral scenes. The scenes themselves depict figures in classical or Arcadian settings. The paintwork is detailed and delicate, consistent with the Sèvres style.
• Pastoral Scenes: This beautiful inkstand is adorned with meticulously hand-painted scenes on its porcelain body and lid. The overall theme is a continuous, romantic pastoral landscape, executed in a delicate and soft color palette.

• Scene Around the Urn: The entire scene wraps around the central urn-shaped inkwell, creating a single narrative. On the left side, a young man stands in a landscape, while on the right, a maiden is depicted. They are separated by a winding path that leads away from the viewer toward a distant, pastoral vista. In the immediate foreground, there are carefully painted details of rocks and small birds, adding to the naturalistic feel.
• Scene on the Lid: The small, circular painting on the lid features a dynamic vignette of a young boy. He is wearing a large hat and appears to be in a leaping or running motion.

• Metal Mounts: The piece boasts rich gilded metal mounts. These mounts are intricately cast in a style that combines Rococo scrollwork, symmetrical patterns, and detailed shell motifs. They frame the porcelain, forming the feet, the base border, and a decorative surround for the inkwell and lid.
• Central Inkwell: The inkwell itself is an urn shape that is seamlessly integrated into the porcelain base. It is topped with a hinged, gilded metal lid and has hanging finial accents, which are small, dangling metal ornaments that add a touch of elegance and movement to the piece.