Combination Letter Holder / Inkstand

This is a highly ornate and elaborate desk set, combining a cast brass letter holder and a double inkstand. It is composed of a single, flowing structure that integrates multiple functions:

• Front Section: This part contains two round inkwells, each with a hinged lid. The lids are topped with decorative finials, and the area between them serves as a long, narrow pen tray.
• Rear Section: The back of the stand is a letter rack divided into three compartments by ornate dividers, allowing for the organization of letters and envelopes.
• Base: The entire piece rests on a heavy base with intricate, raised borders.

Description of the Ornamentation

The detailed ornamentation is a key feature of this inkstand. The style is theatrical and mythological, drawing from classical and Renaissance motifs. The decorative elements include:

• Sphinxes: These mythological creatures, with the head of a human and the body of a lion, are a hallmark of classical and Neo-classical design. There are two Sphinxes, one on each of the outer letter dividers, positioned to look outward.
• Cartouches and Shields: The central divider for the letter rack is a shield or cartouche, an ornamental frame often used for inscriptions. This cartouche is decorated with scrolling vines and what appears to be a smaller, stylized face or motif at the top.
• Floral and Foliate Motifs: The ornate dividers and the finials on the inkwell lids are decorated with flowing floral, acanthus, and foliate designs.
• Masks: Small, decorative masks or faces are integrated into the design, particularly at the bottom of the front section of the letter dividers.