French Art Nouveau Inkstand with Clock

Description

This decorative desk set is a French Art Nouveau double inkstand integrated with a desk clock, made with patinated cast metal (likely spelter or régule).

• Central Figural Sculpture: Positioned centrally beneath the clock arch is a classic Art Nouveau draped maiden (femme fleur) depicted in a graceful, sinuous pose with both hands raised to adjust her long, flowing hair.
• Clock & Columns: The round clock dial with black Arabic numerals sits atop an architectural portico supported by two classical columns with floral festoons. The top of the clock case is crowned with a carved laurel wreath cresting.
• Inkwells: Flanking the base are two clear, cut-glass inkwells featuring patinated metal lids decorated with relief floral motifs.
• Base & Pen Trough: The front base includes a curved pen trough. The lower front apron features a central relief medallion depicting a woman’s head in profile, surrounded by floral and leaf garlands, raised on four scrolling feet.

Date of Manufacture

• Circa 1895–1910: The piece reflects the peak of the Art Nouveau and Belle Époque periods, blending organic, flowing figural sculpture with late Neoclassical structural elements (columns, laurel wreath, and profile medallion).

• Origin: Made in France (frequently produced in Paris or the Ardennes region for domestic sales and export).