Inkstand with Two Pump-Style Inkwells

This inkstand shows the ingenuity of Louis Honoré Bouquet, an innovator renowned for his pump-style inkwells. Bouquet perfected a sophisticated system where turning a knob activates a plunger, allowing ink to flow precisely into the exterior font for immediate use.

This example of a Bouquet pump-style inkstand boasts two separate pump inkwells, each featuring white ceramic bodies and intricate brass pump mechanisms. Positioned centrally between these two inkwells is a covered storage container, also made from white ceramic with a matching brass lid. All three components are set into a lacquered wood base that includes a molded pen channel along its front edge. Both pump fonts retain their original covers.

The brass turning knobs on both inkwells bear significant markings: “Médaille D’Argent 1839” (Silver Medal 1839) is prominently stamped in the center, commemorating an award from the prestigious “Société d’encouragement pour l’Industrie nationale” (Association for the Encouragement of National Industry). Around the edge of the knobs, the inscription “Encrier Pompe Bouquet Brevet” (Bouquet Pump Inkwell Patent) further attests to the patented nature of his inventive design.

To see how a pump inkwell works, check out this video:

• French pump inkwell – YouTube