Inkipedia
Figural Military Inkstand: The Cossack Guard
| Categories | Figural - Persons |
| Type | Military |
| Material | Cast iron |
| Markings | Unmarked |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | Undetermined |
| Date or Era | circa 1890 |
| Measuring | 7 ½” high |
- Description and Materials
- Subject and Form: The inkstand features a standing military figure, likely representing a Russian Cossack or a soldier from the Caucasian/Central Asian regiments of the Russian Imperial Army (due to the distinct cap, heavy clothing, and equipment).
- Equipment: The figure is heavily laden, carrying a musket or rifle, a backpack/satchel, and a small ax or shashka (a curved saber, though often generalized to an ax in popular figurines).
- The Head: The hinged head lifts up to provide access to the inkwell cavity within the body. The original white porcelain insert is present.
- Construction and Base:
- Figure Material: The figure is made of cast iron or steel type metal. Cast iron was the most common material for such intricate, heavy, mass-produced figures in the 19th century, especially in Germany and Russia.
- Base Material: The figure is affixed to a round base of polished black granite or slate.
- Origin and Age
- Origin: Was it made in Russia?
- It is possible, but more likely German or Austrian. While the subject is clearly Russian (a Cossack or Imperial Guard), many 19th-century foundries in Germany (especially those known for detailed metal castings like the foundries in Berlin and the Black Forest region) produced historical and military figures for the international market, including Russian themes.
- Note: Without a foundry mark, the origin is hard to confirm, but German/Austrian foundries dominated this type of cast-metal desk accessory production.
- Age: The style of military commemoration and the widespread use of cast iron for detailed figurines place this piece firmly in the Mid-to-Late 19th Century.
- Estimated Age: c. 1870–1900. This period was marked by intense national and military interest across Europe, making figures of foreign military units highly fashionable collectibles.
Sold for $514 in November 2025
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