Grand Tour Inkstand

This inkwell rests on a Sienna marble base, which is known for its distinctive yellowish color with brown veining. The inkwell is made of bronze and is a blend of classical and mythological themes. A cherub or putto figure holding a bunch of grapes sits at the top. The body of the inkwell is adorned with detailed reliefs, including cherubic faces. The lower part of the inkwell is supported by three horse figures with wings, suggesting they are Pegasus-like creatures.

This inkstand is called a “Grand Tour” piece referring to a tradition from the 17th to the 19th centuries where young European aristocrats, particularly from Britain, would embark on a cultural tour of Europe. This journey, known as the Grand Tour, was considered an essential part of their education. They would visit major cultural sites, especially in Italy, and often collect souvenirs such as artworks, sculptures, and decorative objects like this inkwell. These items were brought back as mementos of their travels and as symbols of their cultural refinement and education.