Inkipedia
Grand Tour Bloodstone Inkwell
| Categories | Souvenir, Stone/Marble/Ivory/Bone/Hoof/Leather |
| Type | Grand Tour |
| Material | Stone |
| Markings | Unmarked |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | Italy |
| Date or Era | circa 1870 |
| Measuring | 6 ½” diameter; 4 ½” high |
- Material: Bloodstone Carving. “Bloodstone” is a dark green variety of chalcedony with distinctive red flecks of iron oxide. It’s also known as heliotrope. The term “bloodstone carving” refers to the craftsmanship of shaping and sculpting this semi-precious stone. Unlike simpler materials, bloodstone is a hard gemstone (6.5-7 on the Mohs scale), making it difficult and time-consuming to work with. The skill required for a carver to shape it into a large, functional object like an inkwell is considerable, which adds to its value.
- “Grand Tour” Provenance. The term “Grand Tour” refers to the traditional European trip taken by wealthy young men from about 1660 to the 1840s. A Grand Tour piece, especially from Italy, implies it was purchased by a discerning individual with wealth and taste. These souvenirs were often of high quality and craftsmanship, made to be displayed in a gentleman’s library or study. Grand Tour souvenirs were typically made from materials found in Italy and Greece that were popular at the time. This includes various marbles (Carrara, Siena), alabaster, bronze, and hardstones like bloodstone.
Sold for $700 in August 2025
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