French Champlevé Inkstand

This is an ornate French champlevé enamel inkstand, complete with integrated pen holder and a matching pen. Constructed from gilded bronze, it is decorated using the champlevé enamel technique. This involves carving or etching cells into the metal and filling them with vibrant enamel pastes, which are then fired to create a smooth, colorful surface.

The inkstand has an elongated, curvilinear base decorated with intricate champlevé enamel patterns. These patterns likely feature a combination of floral and foliate motifs, in a varied color palette typical of French champlevé work, including blues, reds, greens, yellows, and whites, all outlined by the raised metal cloisons.

The inkstand accommodates two inkwells, positioned symmetrically on the base. The inkwells themselves are also constructed with gilded bronze and are decorated with matching champlevé enamel patterns. They have hinged lids, also enameled and often topped with small finials.   At its center is an integrated pen holder.