Egyptian Revival Bronze Inkwell

This is a nice example of a late 19^th century Egyptian Revival Bronze Inkwell, likely dating from the 1870s to 1890s. This period saw a “second wave” of fascination with ancient Egypt, fueled by the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 and the premiere of Verdi’s opera Aida in 1871.

Detailed Description

• Form & Style: The inkwell is designed in the form of a Canopic jar—traditionally used in ancient Egypt to store internal organs during mummification. In the Victorian era, these forms were reimagined as high-end desk accessories.
• Figure Depicted: The lid features the bust of an Egyptian Queen, likely intended to be Cleopatra. While stylized, she wears a modified nemes (royal headdress) secured by a circlet or diadem. Her collar is decorated with geometric patterns characteristic of the “Orientalist” art movement of the time.
• Material & Construction: The piece is cast in heavy bronze. It features a hinged lid at the back of the figure’s shoulders. The base consists of a tiered square plinth resting on a rounded, molded foot.
• Interior:  It retains its original white porcelain liner. The purple staining visible on the interior of the lid is likely residue from Violet Ink, which was extremely popular and fashionable in the late 1800s.

Origin and History

• Where it was made: Although unmarked, the casting quality and the specific “urn-on-plinth” design suggest it is of French or English origin. France, in particular, was the leader in the Egyptian Revival (Retour d’Egypte) style, with foundries like Barbedienne or Delafontaine producing similar figural bronzes for luxury retailers.
• When it was made: Circa 1875–1885. This predates the later 1920s “Tut-mania” (Art Deco) period, as evidenced by the more rounded, ovoid proportions and the specific style of the porcelain insert.

Summary

Title: Victorian Egyptian Revival Bronze “Canopic Jar” Inkwell Date: c. 1880 Subject: Stylized bust of Cleopatra / Egyptian Queen Features: Hinged figural lid, original porcelain liner, stepped plinth base. Condition Note: Retains a natural aged patina with evidence of historical use (violet ink staining).