Classical Urn Inkwell

Description

• Form & Structure: A Classical Revival single inkwell designed in the shape of a two-handled urn mounted upon a broad, circular saucer.
• Body & Lid: The central urn features a smooth, unadorned body set on a knop-turned pedestal stem. It is topped with a domed lid that terminates in an urn-finial knob and is secured at the back by a three-leaf hinge.
• Handles: Prominent, squared geometric handles flank the sides, featuring a distinct, angular “Greek key” (meander) silhouette.
• Base: The urn is anchored to a wide, flat brass tray with a subtle raised lip, secured from beneath by a central threaded screw assembly.
• Insert: Features a removable white porcelain insert with a hand-gilded gold rim designed to rest flush against the brass lip of the reservoir.
• Approximate Date: Circa 1880–1910. The geometric, rectilinear shape of the Greek-key handles paired with the classical urn form reflects the Neo-Greco aesthetic of the late 19th century.