Wood Inkstand with Brass Overlay

This inkstand is marked by Charles Asprey of Bond Street, London, inscribed on the brass fitting of the inkwell lid. The circular ebonized wood base is covered with brass overlay, meticulously worked in a pierced and chased design that follows the circular form of the base and frames a central pen trough.

The inkstand embraces an Egyptian theme, a popular aesthetic during certain periods of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, fueled by archaeological discoveries and a fascination with ancient civilizations. Flanking the central glass inkwell are two brass appliques in the form of pharaoh’s heads, complete with traditional headdresses.

In the center is a faceted clear glass inkwell. The bottom of the glass inkwell is decorated with a deeply cut starburst pattern. This radiates outwards from the center, creating a sparkling effect when viewed from above or below. The inkwell is fitted with a hinged, ornate brass lid. Set into the center of this lid is a banded agate cut in a smooth cabochon form. The stone features distinct, contrasting bands of black, white, and a translucent brown or tan, curving gently across its polished surface. The agate is set into the brass lid with etched designs radiating outwards from the central stone.