Inkipedia
Grand Tour Inkwell
| Categories | Souvenir, Stone/Marble/Ivory/Bone/Hoof/Leather |
| Type | Carved Cameos |
| Material | Marble |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | Italy |
| Date or Era | circa 1800 - 1840 |
| Measuring | 6” diameter and 4 ¼” high to the top of the handle. |
Italian Grand Tour carved cameo and serpentine marble inkwell with original brass and glass inserts. Two examples are pictured. Seven carved lava stone cameos in brass mounts depict famous philosophers, poets, artists, etc. and are set in a solid hand carved swirl-shaped marble with inkwells and quill holes.
Given the historical and artistic context, the cameos might include figures like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Homer, Virgil, Dante, Michelangelo, or Leonardo da Vinci. These individuals were often celebrated in art and literature during the Grand Tour period.
This inkwell is a fine example of a Grand Tour Souvenir. The proximity to Mount Vesuvius with the use of lava stone made this souvenir even more attractive. This type of inkstand was made specifically for wealthy tourists visiting the historic sites of the European Grand Tour.
Sold for $988 in April 2023;
Sold for $469 in April 2024
Sold for $335 in July 2024
Sold for $721 in November 2024
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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