French Bronze Beetle & Butterfly Inkstand

Maker This French bronze inkstand was produced by F. Graat (marked on the underside paper label as F. GRAAT BRONZE D’ART, 11, Boulevart de la Madeleine, Paris).

Date of Manufacture It dates to the late 19th century (circa 1870s–1890s), created during the Napoleon III to early Art Nouveau era, when naturalistic and insect-themed decorative bronzes were in fashion across Europe.

Description

• Form & Structure: The inkstand features a round, stepped saucer-like base supporting a central pedestal inkwell with a hinged lid. Two delicate, stylized floral/leaf-motif handles extend outward from the sides of the central well tier.
• Decorative Elements: The piece is ornamented with three-dimensional cold-painted and enameled insects applied across both the lower tray and upper shoulder of the well. These include various beetles, a ladybug, bees/flies, and a butterfly perched atop the lid finial as the lid knob.
• Interior & Construction: Opening the hinged lid reveals a space for a missing insert. The underside retains its original maker’s label from the Paris boulevard shop.