Inkstand with Napoleon and a Clock

This double inkstand features a sleeping Napoleon with his boot resting on a globe-form clock, mounted with an eagle clutching two arrows. It is sometimes titled “Veille de Wagram” (Eve of Wagram). The battle of Wagram (near Vienna) took place in July 1809. A gruesome battle, it was the site of Napoleon’s last military victory.

The clock has Roman numerals for the hours, with a small round brass spring-driven time with a one-day movement and cylinder escapement. With two gilded metal inkwells, it is mounted on a black, white, and green variegated marble base with ornate trim and ball feet.