Old Paris Porcelain Inkstand

Description

• The Inkstand (Tray): The main body features heavily molded, scrolling rocaille work, typical of the Rococo style, highlighted with extensive gilt accents. A prominent shell motif sits at the front center, and a highly decorative, pierced-scroll back handle rises to serve as a finger hold or pen rest. The top surface includes a painted gold floral/wreath design between the two large openings.
• The Inserts: The set contains two removable cylindrical porcelain pots that fit into the main wells:
  • The Inkwell: A completely open pot designed to hold liquid ink.
  • The Sander (Pounce Pot): A pot with a flat, perforated top containing small holes, used to distribute sand or pounce powder to dry wet ink on paper.
• The Lids: Two matching, removable domed lids sit over the pots, topped with gilded bulbous finials.
• The Base: The underside reveals a completely unglazed outer rim with a glazed interior center. It has no maker’s stamps or manufacturer hallmarks, which is common for this style of production.

Origin and Dating

• Where it was made: This piece is characteristic of French porcelain, specifically Old Paris (Vieux Paris) porcelain, crafted by one of the numerous artisan workshops operating in Paris during the 19th century.
• When it was made: Circa 1840–1860. The heavy reliance on theatrical scrollwork, shell molding, and lavish gilding perfectly aligns with the height of the mid-19th-century Rococo Revival period.