Red Enamel Double Inkstand

This double inkstand with an integrated pocket watch holder was made around 1860–1880 in France.

Description

• Pocket Watch Stand: Positioned at the center rear, a gilded bronze architectural framework features a top hook designed to display a gentleman’s or lady’s pocket watch. The frame houses a circular medallion backing finished in rich red enamel with hand-painted floral ivy wreaths.
• Inkwells: Flanking the watch stand are two urn-shaped enameled porcelain inkwells resting on raised pedestal feet. Each inkwell features hinged gilded brass lids and matching hand-painted ivy/foliage garland decoration set against the vibrant red ground.
• Pen Tray: A long, rounded-rectangular tray sits horizontally along the front, mounted within a decorative brass rim with two integrated rests to cradle a dip pen. The interior of the tray continues the hand-painted floral scroll motif on red enamel.
• Base & Feet: The entire assembly is mounted onto a black marble (or Belgian black marble / dark slate) plinth with contoured, serpentine edges. The plinth is framed by a gilt bronze rim and elevated on four scrolled acanthus-leaf feet.

Maker, Origin, Date & Materials

• Maker: Unsigned French Manufacturer / Atelier (often attributed to high-end Parisian luxury goods makers or retailers such as Palais Royal importers, Maison Alphonse Giroux, or Tahan).
• Where Made: France (Paris).
• When Made: Circa 1860s–1880s.
• Materials Made Of:
  • Base: Black marble (or polished black slate).
  • Metalwork: Gilt bronze (ormolu) and cast brass mounts, feet, hinges, and watch hook.
  • Decorative Components: Hand-painted enamel over ceramic or copper (champlevé / enameled porcelain).