Winged Lion of Venice

This is a large and ornate inkstand composed of a polished malachite base with gilt bronze hardware and a central sculpture.

• Malachite Base: The foundation of the inkstand is a rectangular slab of polished malachite. The deep green mineral features the characteristic concentric banding and intricate patterns that make it highly prized. The base includes a recessed channel along the front for holding pens. The malachite is set within a cast bronze frame with a decorative gilt finish.

Description of the Inkwell

• The glass inkwell is housed in a detailed, open-work gilt bronze holder. This ornate, cage-like structure is decorative and serves to protect the glass insert while securing it to the malachite base. The inkwell has an elaborate, domed lid with a hinge. The top of the lid features an inlaid piece of polished malachite, perfectly cut to fit the curve of the dome. A small, decorative gilt bronze finial sits atop the malachite inlay, serving as a handle to open the lid.

The Winged Lion Sculpture: The central sculptural element is a finely detailed cast gilt bronze figure of a winged lion. This is the Lion of Saint Mark, a powerful symbol of Venice, Italy. The lion is depicted in a majestic, regal pose with its paw resting on a book.

The Latin Inscription on the Book

The Latin phrase is: PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEUS

Translation: “Peace be with you, Mark, my evangelist.”

This is the traditional inscription associated with the Lion of Saint Mark. According to legend, an angel appeared to Saint Mark in a dream while he was in Venice and spoke these very words to him. The inscription, along with the winged lion, is a definitive symbol of the Republic of Venice and its patron saint.