Riding Elephant Figural Inkstand

Detailed Description

• Overall Form: A central, figural sculpture of an elephant carrying a figure and cargo is mounted on a base.
• Base: The elephant figure stands on a polished oval Alabaster base. Alabaster was a popular choice for the bases of figural desk sets in the late 19th century.
• The Elephant Figure: The elephant is made of a ‘white metal’ alloy, likely spelter (zinc alloy) or Britannia metal, finished with a patina or painted finish that gives it a dark, matte, lead-like appearance. The trunk is raised, often a sign of good luck.
• The Rider/Mahout: A small, naked figure, which resembles a Cherub or Putto, stands on the elephant’s back. This figure acts as the Mahout (elephant driver) and holds a wire that serves as the reins to guide the elephant.
• The Inkwells (The Cargo): The elephant carries two separate inkwells, one on each side, like panniers or cargo baskets.
  • The Glass: The inkwells themselves are made of clear pressed glass, with a radiating or paneled pattern.
  • The Metal Holders (Cargo Holders): The glass stems fit into separate, cylindrical metal holders secured to the elephant’s sides. These are called, in this specific context, Howdah (or palanquin) mounts, made of brass with a perforated, decorative geometric pattern.
  • The Lids: Each inkwell is topped with a hinged, dome-shaped metal lid, held in place by a brass collar and a hinge mechanism.

Estimated Age and Origin

• Figural Inkwells: Figurative inkstands (like animals, people, or architectural models) were extremely popular during the second half of the 19th century.
• Materials: The combination of white metal (spelter/Britannia), brass mounts, pressed glass inkwells, and an alabaster base is characteristic of French, German, or American decorative arts from this period.
• Style: The exotic subject (the elephant) and the classical figure (the cherub) combined with the decorative pierced metalwork point to the aesthetic of the Late Victorian Era. Age Estimate: 1870 – 1900