French Rococo Revival Double Inkstand

This is an elaborate, 19th-century French Rococo Revival double inkstand accompanied by a matching letter opener, all crafted in gilded bronze (also known as ormolu).

Description

The inkstand is designed with heavy, symmetrical ornamentation and a dynamic sense of movement characteristic of the Louis XV style.

• The Base: The inkstand features a wide, contoured base that serves as a pen tray. It is elevated on four scrolling acanthus-leaf feet.
• The Inkwells: There are two identical, rounded inkwells with hinged, domed lids. The lids are decorated with relief-cast floral and foliate motifs and are topped with ornate finials. The inserts are missing.
• Central Decorative Crest: Rising between and behind the inkwells is a large, pierced decorative crest. It features complex C-scrolls, shell motifs, and floral swags, providing a dramatic backdrop for the piece.
• Letter Opener: The set includes a matching gilded letter opener with a handle that mirrors the foliate and scrollwork design of the inkstand base.

Markings and Identification

The underside of the piece reveals specific manufacturing marks that help identify its origin:

• The Markings: The numbers “166” and the initials “BD” are stamped into the metal on the underside of the base.
• Significance: The “BD” mark is associated with Baudy, a high-end French bronze founder active in Paris during the mid-to-late 19th century. Baudy was known for producing high-quality decorative arts in the “Neo-Rococo” style. The “166” likely refers to a specific pattern or production number in the Baudy workshop’s catalog.

Age and Origin

• Estimated Age: Based on the style and the foundry mark, this set dates to approximately 1860–1880.
• Region: It was manufactured in Paris, France, which was the global center for high-quality gilded bronze production during the Second Empire period.

Construction Details

• Assembly: The underside shows that the main components—the inkwell bodies and the central crest—are secured to the base using original square-head bolts and threaded rods, a standard technique for quality 19th-century bronze assembly.
• Gilding: The piece retains a significant amount of its original fire-gilding, which gives it its rich, gold appearance.