Gilt Bronze and Cobalt Blue Glass Inkstand

This double inkstand is an example of French “Boulle” style revival decorative arts, combining ornate gilt metalwork with deep cobalt blue glass.

Detailed Description

• The Structure: The set consists of a large, shaped gilt bronze (ormolu) tray with a high-relief floral and foliate border. The central field features intricate openwork scrolls (rinceaux) laid over panels of cobalt blue glass.
• The Inkwells: Two matching square, architectural inkwells sit upon the base. They feature the same openwork gilt design over blue glass and have hinged, flat lids.
• Pen Rest: At the rear, a tall, ornate gilt bronze rack serves as a rest for multiple dip pens.
• Construction: The underside reveals a traditional wooden core reinforced with a metal cross-brace and secured with slotted screws, a standard method for high-end 19th-century French desk sets.

The Glass Container and Brush

The small glass container with the accompanying brush was used for mucilage (an early liquid adhesive or glue).

• In the 19th century, desk sets often included a “paste pot” or mucilage well alongside inkwells for sealing envelopes or attaching documents.
• The brush allowed for the precise application of the adhesive, which was frequently made from gum arabic.

Origin and Manufacturer

This piece is French and was produced during the Napoleon III period (Second Empire).

• Estimated Age: Produced circa 1860–1880.
• Style: It is in the Louis XIV (Boulle) Revival style, which became immensely popular in Paris during the mid-to-late 19th century.
• Potential Manufacturer: While often unmarked, sets of this specific quality and design were frequently produced by premier Parisian “Bronziers” or makers of objets de vertu such as Tahan, Alphonse Giroux, or Maison Diehl. These firms specialized in luxury “Boulle-work” items for the French aristocracy and the wealthy bourgeoisie.