French Empire Revival Inkstand

This French Empire Revival double inkstand dates to the late 19th or early 20th century (circa 1890–1920). It captures the majestic symmetry and classical vocabulary of the original First Empire period (1804–1815).

Materials & Construction

• The Base: The substantial rectangular stand is cut from a single, heavily figured slab of Verde Antico (or green serpentine) marble. The deep green coloration is striking, characterized by dense, intricate webbing of white and light-green calcite veins.
• The Hardware: The underside reveals authentic period construction. The four gilt bronze paw feet are secured with heavy, hand-fitted brass straps and traditional slotted iron screws, consistent with late 19th- to early 20th-century manufacturing. Three central mounting studs secure the upper inkwells and central tazza.

Design Elements & Empire Style Motifs

• Symmetry for a Partner’s Desk: Designed to be multi-directional, the piece features dual carved pen troughs (one on each side) and matching ornate gilt bronze friezes applied to both the front and back long edges. This makes it ideal for the center of a large desk or library table.
• The Inkwells: Flanking the center are two heavy, classic capstan-form inkwells in a contrasting dark patinated bronze. The lift-off lids feature finely chased, gilded radiating leaf collars topped by bold pineapple finials.
• The Central Tazza: At the center sits a gilt bronze tazza (pedestal dish) featuring a fluted under-basin, traditionally used to hold wax seals, stamps, or small desk clips.
• The Center Pedestal: The tazza rests on a flared, pyramidal patinated bronze column. The face of the column is adorned with a highly detailed, applied ormolu mount showcasing a neoclassical palmette/anthemion design flanked by stylized laurel wreaths.
• The Feet: The entire stand is elevated by four gilt bronze lion paw feet that scroll upward onto the corners of the marble.

Summary

This desk set avoids the overly fussy motifs of the late Victorian era, opting instead for the clean architectural lines and bold contrasts characteristic of high-quality French Revival bronze-work. The contrast between the cold, vivid green marble, the dark patinated bronze wells, and the bright mercury-gilded (ormolu) accents gives it tremendous presence.