French Rococo Revival Inkwell

This is a nice example of a French Rococo Revival (also known as Louis XV style) inkwell, likely dating to the late 19th century (circa 1870–1890).

Description & Design

The inkwell is composed of two primary materials: ornate gilt bronze or “ormolu” and swirled glass.

• The Tray: The base tray is square with a scalloped, “pierced” (openwork) perimeter. The flat surfaces are engraved with a lattice or trellis pattern interspersed with tiny four-petaled flowers, a classic French decorative motif from the Napoleon III era. Each corner is anchored by ornate foliate feet.
• The Glass Reservoir: The central well is made of clear glass featuring diagonal swirled ribs. This “wrythen” style was a popular glass-blowing technique in the 19th century for both French and English desk accessories. The bottom of the glass has a scalloped edge that matches the swirl of the body.
• The Hinged Lid: The domed lid matches the tray’s lattice pattern and is surmounted by a floral finial (a rose or peony). The interior of the lid reveals a stamped floral pattern, indicating that the piece was finished with attention to detail even on the non-visible surfaces.

Age & Origin

• Era: Late 19th Century (approx. 1870–1890).
• Style: Rococo Revival / Louis XV Style. This is evidenced by the “C-scrolls,” asymmetrical foliage around the collar of the well, and the heavy use of gilding.
• Origin: France. While English makers produced similar items, the specific lattice-and-floret engraving and the style of the openwork handles are hallmarks of French “Parisian” desk sets of this period.