Cupid Atop the Inkwell

This 19th-century porcelain piece is of French origin. Despite the damage to the wings and arrow, it reflects the whimsical “Vieux Paris” (Old Paris) style popular during that era.

Description

The set is designed as a trompe-l’oeil (fool the eye) trinket box, where the lid features a hand-painted porcelain cherub—specifically Cupid—reclining on a tufted, deep blue cushion.

• The Figure: The cherub is depicted in a relaxed pose, draped in a vibrant magenta or pink loincloth. He holds the fletched end of an arrow, though the shaft and tip are missing. The white, tapered object with gold bands located behind the cherub’s legs is a quiver. In classical iconography, Cupid is almost always accompanied by his bow and a quiver of arrows.
• The Interior: Lifting the lid reveals two removable square porcelain containers nested within the base.
  • The Inkwell: The square on the left features a single open hole intended to hold liquid ink.
  • The Sander (Pounce Pot): The square on the right features a concave, perforated top with a central gilt knob. This was used to sprinkle “pounce” (fine powder or sand) onto wet ink to accelerate the drying process before the advent of blotting paper.

Origin and Estimated Age

The vibrant palette, the use of a tufted cushion motif, and the high-gloss porcelain are hallmarks of Paris Porcelain (Vieux Paris).

• Estimated Age: Circa 1850–1880.
• Context: During the mid-to-late 19th century, desk accessories became increasingly ornate. Figural inkstands like this were popular gift items for ladies’ writing desks.