“Old Paris” (Vieux Paris) Porcelain Inkstand

Origin: France (Paris) Date: c. 1850–1870 (Napoleon III / Second Empire Period)

Material: Hard-paste porcelain with polychrome enamels and gilding.

Why “Old Paris”?

The term “Old Paris” (or Vieux Paris) refers to the output of over 30 distinct porcelain factories operating in and around Paris between the mid-1700s and 1870. Unlike the Royal factory at Sèvres, these were commercial enterprises catering to the rising bourgeoisie.

• No Mark: The lack of a maker’s mark on the underside is actually the strongest indicator of Old Paris porcelain. About 70% of these wares were never signed or marked.
• The Style: The flamboyant “Rococo Revival” shape—with its heavy molded scrolls, asymmetrical curves, and “leafy” feet—is the signature style of the mid-19th century French decorative arts.

Detailed Description

• Form: The inkstand is shaped as a boat-like tray with undulating, molded rims simulating organic Rococo scrolls or “rocaille.” It is raised on four integrated scroll feet.
• Decoration: The white porcelain body is accented with hand-painted green foliage (appearing to be ivy or grape leaves) molded in relief on the handles and rim. The edges and highlights are finished with heavy gilding.
• The Inserts: The stand retains its two original matching porcelain inserts, which sit in the central wells:

1. Inkwell: The insert on the left is an open cup with a removable lid with a small finial.
2. The Sander (Pounce Pot): The insert on the right features a perforated or shaker top. Before the widespread use of blotting paper, writers used a “sander” to shake fine powder (pounce) made of gum sandarac or cuttlefish bone over wet ink to dry it.