Green Ceramic and Ormolu Inkstand

This inkstand is a fine example of late 19th-century French decorative arts, circa 1870–1890.

Description

• Body: The inkstand features a square, stepped (truncated pyramid) ceramic body finished in a vibrant, deep moss-green glaze. The glaze exhibits darker pooling in the recessed areas, a technique often seen in high-end French faience or majolica of the era.
• Pen Channels: Integrated into the ceramic body on the left and right sides are two long, deep pen channels (or pen rests) designed to hold dip pens.
• Metalwork:
  • Lid: The hinged lid is made of gilt bronze (ormolu) and is decorated with a relief of radiating acanthus leaves or floral scrolls, topped with a tiered, turned knob.
  • Base: The ceramic sits on an ornate gilt bronze frame featuring a classic guilloché pattern—a series of interlocking circles with small rosettes at the center. The entire piece rests on four circular, turned bronze feet.
• Interior: Inside the bronze collar, there is a removable clear glass inkwell insert for holding the ink.

Origin and Manufacturer

• Made in: France (specifically Paris). This combination of artistic ceramic work and high-quality “bronze doré” (gilt bronze) mounts is a hallmark of Parisian luxury goods from the late 1800s.
• Who made it: While there is no visible manufacturer’s mark, the style is highly characteristic of French ceramicists such as Théodore Deck, Longwy, or Sarreguemines. The bronze mounts were likely produced by a specialized Parisian foundry or bronzier.