Ornate Brass Inkstand

This brass inkstand’s heavy ornamentation and use of semi-precious materials suggest it was intended for the highest tier of the 19th-century market.

Description

• Material and Finish: The set is crafted from gilt brass (ormolu), featuring dense, high-relief chased and engraved floral scrolls across every surface.
• The Inkwells: It features two octagonal, tiered towers with hinged lids. The interior of one well contains a removable brass “cistern” or liner, a common feature in high-end sets to prevent ink from corroding the main body.
• Integrated Pen Rack: At the rear is a large, scrolling foliate pen rest.
• The Drawer: A unique feature of this model is the concealed pull-out drawer at the front. In the 19th century, such drawers were used to store sealing wax, extra steel nibs, or postage stamps.

The Gemstones

The inkstand is adorned with large, polished cabochon stones that provide a rich color contrast to the gold-toned brass:

• Malachite: The green, banded stones set into the tops of the inkwell lids are malachite, a copper-carbonate mineral prized for its “silky” green patterns.
• Lapis Lazuli: The deep blue stone on the front of the base is lapis lazuli.
• Carnelian or Jasper: The vibrant red stone opposite the lapis is likely carnelian or red jasper.

Age and Origin

• Estimated Date: Circa 1860–1880.
• Origin: This style of “jeweled” ormolu is a hallmark of French manufacturing, specifically from the Parisian workshops of the mid-to-late 19th century. Firms like Tahan or Alphons Giroux were famous for producing these quality desk sets for the European aristocracy.