Louis XV Style Inkstand

This inkstand has an ornate, scrolling form characteristic of the Rococo period. The base is made of gilded bronze, with a decorative frame featuring flowing, asymmetrical curves and leaf motifs. The central panel is an inlaid wood lacquer panel with a geometric, woven pattern, a marquetry or parquetry design. The inkstand stands on scrolled feet that are integrated into the bronze frame.

There are three containers on the panel: two ink reservoirs and a pounce pot. The containers have removable, openwork lids. These lids are also made of gilded bronze and are decorated with oak leaves and a small acorn finial at the top. The pounce pot is identifiable by its perforated lid, which was used to sprinkle powder over wet ink to dry it.